Air pollution has become one of the leading causes of eye-related health problems, especially in urban areas where PM2.5 levels remain far above recommended limits for most of the year. Continuous exposure
to a blanket of smog causes ongoing damage to the ocular surface. What once felt like occasional discomfort has now turned into persistent dryness, burning, watering, itching and fluctuating vision that lasts throughout the day.
Dr. AAV Ramalinga Reddy, Sr. Cataract Surgeon, Dr. Ramalinga Reddy Maxivision Super Speciality Eye Hospitals, says, “In 2025, we observed nearly a 20%-25% rise in pollution-related complaints, including dryness, allergic conjunctivitis, and early corneal inflammation. Younger individuals, children, adolescents, and office-going professionals are reporting symptoms like burning, grittiness, and redness far more frequently than before. Pollutants such as PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide destabilize the tear film, exposing the cornea and triggering microscopic inflammation.” Many patients unknowingly worsen the condition with over-the-counter redness-relief drops that contain preservatives. Long-term exposure also accelerates conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma progression, and diabetic eye complications.
“Pollution has become a year-round clinical concern that requires timely medical attention. Maxivision hospitals across the country have recorded a very high increase in the number of pollution-linked allergies, meibomian gland dysfunction, and early inflammatory changes. These changes indicate a deeper reality that pollution is no longer just a passive irritant but a biological disruptor that can affect the protective and healing mechanisms of the eyes,” adds Dr Reddy.
A New Wave of Pollution-Driven Eye Complaints
Across metropolitan regions, clinics are reporting a surge in people seeking help during periods of heavy pollution. Common complaints include watery eyes, sticky discharge, morning heaviness and blurred vision that varies with air quality. These issues are no longer seasonal; they have become widespread and persistent.
Younger age groups are especially vulnerable. Excessive screen time reduces the blink rate, destabilising the tear film. As a result, children and young adults are now experiencing dry eyes and irritation at much earlier ages.
The Hidden Biological Damage Most People Don’t See
Pollution triggers eye damage that often goes unnoticed until symptoms worsen. The first structure affected is the tear film, the eye’s main lubricating layer. Pollutants disrupt its stability, causing rapid evaporation and leaving the cornea vulnerable to friction and micro-abrasions.
Doctors increasingly observe conjunctival inflammation, meibomian gland dysfunction and heightened sensitivity to light as recurring issues. Because early pollution-induced symptoms resemble those of glaucoma, conjunctivitis or dry-eye syndrome, many people misinterpret them and turn to OTC medications. This delays proper care and can worsen the condition.
Why Self-Medication Makes the Problem Worse
A major challenge in treating pollution-induced eye issues is widespread dependence on over-the-counter eye drops. Many of these products contain vasoconstrictors and preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride, which worsen dryness, irritate the ocular surface and speed up inflammation. These drops offer short-term relief but mask deeper problems, causing patients to postpone professional care until significant surface damage has occurred.
Correct diagnosis and doctor-prescribed treatment remain the safest approach.
How Pollution Accelerates Pre-Existing Eye Diseases
Environmental pollutants significantly worsen chronic eye conditions.
Glaucoma: Oxidative stress weakens the optic nerve.
Cataracts: Toxin exposure accelerates lens oxidation, speeding up clouding.
Diabetic eye disease: Polluted air inflames the retina and increases the risk of swelling and microvascular damage.
Pollution spikes also contribute to flare-ups of uveitis, retinal irritation and severe dry-eye disease, making already fragile eyes more vulnerable.
Daily Eye-Care Habits That Truly Work in Polluted Environments
Wear wraparound glasses outdoors to block particulate exposure.
Wash the face and eyelids after returning home to remove deposited pollutants.
Drink sufficient water to maintain a healthy tear film.
Use doctor-prescribed, preservative-free lubricating drops to hydrate the ocular surface.
Avoid direct air conditioning and maintain proper screen distance to prevent tear evaporation.
Practice conscious blinking, especially during screen use, to stabilise the tear film.
The pollution crisis may take years to resolve, but protecting the eyes cannot wait. With disciplined daily care and timely expert intervention, individuals can prevent minor irritation from escalating into serious disease. In a world where the air is increasingly unpredictable, consistent eye protection remains our strongest defence.
