High pollution causing eye problems in Delhi

New Delhi: With air pollution in national Capital entering "severe" category on Wednesday, doctors have observed a sharp rise in number of patients suffering from eye related problems that can lead to reduce in eye vision. Numerous ophthalmologist in Delhi, have observed a sharp rise in number of patients suffering from eye problems like allergy, burning of eyes and itching.

Speaking on the issue, Dr. Rajesh Sinha, Professor of Ophthalmology at AIIMS said that the increasing air pollution is an issue of concern and can also lead to reduced vision. "The rising pollution in Delhi, is a great concern as far as eyes are concerned. Due to this, there is an increase in the incidence of dry eye and ocular allergy. This is causing discomfort even in normal eyes and aggravates the eye complaints in eyes that are prone to dryness and allergies. If care is not taken immediately, some of these eyes can have reduced vision due to this problem as well."

Doctors have also observed an increase in the number of cases. "Patients with pre-existing dry eyes are experiencing exacerbation due to high pollution. We are observing almost increase of 30-35 per cent in

number of patients coming to us with eye related problems. Pollutants and dust in the air is one of the major reasons for causing eye related problems," said Dr. Ikeda Lal, Opthalmologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

"In case of any eye related problems, consulting an ophthalmologist is recommended and exposure to polluted air should be minimised," she added. Doctors have advice the patients to not rub eyes if they itch, wash them with clean water or consult a doctor if it doesn't stop.