Delhi’s ‘Severe’ AQI Irritating Your Eyes? Try These Easy Home Remedies For Relief

With

Delhi’s AQI slipping into the ‘severe’ category right after Diwali, many residents of the Capital are now feeling the effects of the city's infamous smog, and not just on their lungs but also on their eyes. Burning, itching, redness, and dryness are now common complaints as the city battles heavy smog and dust. While staying indoors and wearing protective eyewear outdoors helps, there are a few home remedies and acts that can help provide temporary relief from the irritation.

Common Eye Issues Caused Due To Air Pollution/Smog

• Watery eyes
• Burning sensation or discomfort
• Sore eyes
• Redness
• Swelling
• Itching sensation
• Dry eyes
• Eye allergy (itching, redness, discharge, eyelid swelling, blurring of vision)

Tips To Deal With Eye Issues Caused By Pollution

Use Cold CompressesDip a clean cloth in cold water and place them over your closed eyes. This cold compress can help calm the irritation and redness in your eyes that are often the first and most common issues that crop up due to pollution. Repeat this a few times a day for comfort.

Keep Your Eyes HydratedDry air and pollution often reduce tear production. This is why using lubricating eye drops can keep your eyes moist and reduce discomfort due to dryness. If you prefer a natural option, splash your eyes with cool, clean water several times a day.Stay HydratedPolluted air can cause dehydration, which affects the eyes too. And considering the weather is changing, you might not feel as thirsty as you do in the summer. So make sure you drink plenty of water, coconut water, or herbal tea to keep your body and eyes well hydrated.

Use A Humidifier IndoorsAir purifiers are god-sent in post-Diwali Delhi-NCR, but humidifiers help too. They add moisture to the air, reducing dryness and irritation in your eyes while you stay indoors.Include Eye-Friendly FoodsEat foods rich in Vitamin A, Omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants to strengthen eye health. Carrots, spinach, almonds, flaxseeds, and citrus fruits are all good choices.Avoid Rubbing Your EyesIf your eyes are itchy, it is only natural that you'll rub them, which makes it easier for allergens on your hands to reach your eyes and worsen your chances of getting an eye infection. If your eyes itch, use a clean tissue or rinse them gently instead of rubbing.

Limit Screen TimeThis is a hard call but the fact remains that prolonged use of phones and laptops can add to dryness and strain. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: look away from your screen every 20 minutes and focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give some relief to your eyes.When To See A DoctorIf your eyes remain red, swollen, or painful despite trying these remedies, or if your vision becomes blurry, it’s best to consult an ophthalmologist. Prolonged exposure to poor air quality can sometimes trigger infections or worsen existing eye conditions.