Diwali 2024: Protecting Your Eye Health Amidst Festivities And Air Pollution

As Diwali, the festival of lights, approaches, celebrations are in full swing across India. However, amidst the sparkling lights and colorful fireworks, there’s an underlying issue that affects everyone—air pollution. This pollution can have a severe impact on our eye health, often leading to discomfort, dryness, and even more serious conditions.

The Impact of Diwali Pollution on Eyes

Airborne pollutants—like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide—can irritate the sensitive tissues of the eyes, causing a range of issues from mild discomfort to persistent conditions. As Dr. Neeraj Sanduja, MBBS, MS, ophthalmologist, and eye surgeon at Viaan Eye and Retina Centre, explains, “Pollution, particularly airborne particulate matter and gases from firecrackers, provokes sensitive eye tissues. Exposure to these pollutants can result in acute eye irritation, which, if persistent, may lead to dry eye syndrome, allergic conjunctivitis, and corneal infections. Chemical irritants from firecracker fumes worsen these conditions by making it difficult for the eyeball to retain moisture naturally, causing redness and dryness.”

Common Eye Problems During Diwali

Firecrackers and increased air pollution can trigger several common eye problems during Diwali. Here are some key issues to be mindful of:

1. Dryness

Exposure to airborne pollutants leads to dryness in the eyes. As Dr. Sanduja notes, “Pollution reduces the integrity of the tear film, making eyes itchy and uncomfortable.”

2. Redness and Irritation

Many people report increased redness and swelling around the eyes after exposure to air pollution during Diwali. This is often due to the inflammatory response to chemicals and particulates from firecrackers.

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is common during Diwali, as eyes exposed to firecracker chemicals can develop an allergic reaction. This condition often results in watery, red, and uncomfortable eyes.

4. Foreign Body Sensation

Fine particles from fireworks can enter the eyes, causing a foreign body sensation. If left untreated, this can result in further trauma and increase the risk of infection.

Essential Tips to Protect Your Eyes This Festive Season

As Dr. Digvijay Singh, Director at Noble Eye Care in Gurugram, explains, “Amidst the Diwali fervor, it’s easy to overlook eye care. However, a few simple steps can go a long way in ensuring eye health.” Here are some of Dr. Singh’s top recommendations:

1. Manage Your Diet

During Diwali, it’s easy to indulge in sweets and savory dishes. Dr. Singh emphasizes, “High blood sugar and blood pressure can cause retinal damage, especially in people with diabetes or hypertension. Moderation and a balanced diet are essential.”

2. Address Pollution Concerns

Air pollution around Diwali can irritate the eyes, causing dryness and allergies. Dr. Singh suggests washing your eyes with clean water after being outdoors and using lubricant eye drops to soothe them.

3. Prevent Injuries and Burns

Firecrackers carry a significant risk of eye injury. “Every year, hundreds of cases of firecracker-related vision loss are reported,” says Dr. Singh. It’s essential to handle firecrackers safely and wear protective glasses to minimize the risk.

4. Manage Photosensitivity

Bright lights and sparks from fireworks can trigger photosensitivity, causing discomfort for some people. Dr. Singh recommends wearing glasses and avoiding direct exposure to bright lights to manage this issue effectively.

Celebrate Diwali with Eyesight in Mind

Taking a few proactive steps can protect your eye health and ensure that your Diwali is filled with joy, not discomfort. As Dr. Singh concludes, “This Diwali, let’s ensure that the smiles and lights go hand in hand with safety precautions for our eyes.”

This festive season, remember that protecting your eyes will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of Diwali and its shimmering lights.