Overview
- Ophthalmologists quoted by PTI report a roughly 50–60% increase in eye complaints in the days after Diwali as pollution spiked to the severe category.
- Hospitals cited by Hindustan Times describe a 15–20% rise over the past two weeks, indicating sustained pressure on outpatient services across the city.
- Patients most often report itching, redness, dryness, burning, excessive watering, and a gritty or heavy sensation typical of pollution-induced ocular allergy.
- Doctors explain that PM2.5 and PM10 disrupt the tear film and inflame the ocular surface, while gases such as nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide chemically irritate the eyes.
- Clinicians advise avoiding contact lenses and heavy eye makeup, using lubricating drops and protective eyewear, limiting outdoor exposure during peak smog, and avoiding over-the-counter steroid eye drops linked to glaucoma risk in children.