Climate change not only affects the environment. It’s also a potential hazard to your health. Your eyes, in particular, may bear most of the impact since their sensitive and delicate structures are constantly exposed to the elements. Your trusted family eye care clinic, Park Slope Eye, discusses the effects of climate change on your eyesight.
Rising Temperatures May Result in Dry Eyes
As the environmental temperature increases, humidity may decrease, and arid air may increase. This may cause your tears to evaporate rapidly, leading to dry eyes and other desiccating eye conditions.Applying warm compresses and prescription tear drops can enhance lubrication in your eyes. We may also insert a punctal plug to prevent your tears from draining.
Toxic Mix of Airborne Pollutants May Increase Your Risk of Ocular Allergies and Irritations
The uncontrolled use of fire in crop clearing may result in increased pollutants in the air, which can irritate your eyes. According to your expert eye doctor, they may also exacerbate your hypersensitivity reflexes. A study conducted by Dr. Sheila West, the Vice Chair for Research at John Hopkins University’s Wilmer Eye Institute, revealed that women who use wood or charcoal for cooking are more likely to develop trachoma. This is a communicable ocular infection that often results in corneal damage.
A reliable way to keep your eyes in great shape is to have eye exams regularly. This allows us to immediately check for any signs of irregularities, creating an opportunity to provide immediate management. Wearing sunglasses or eyeglasses can also help prevent these toxic particles from entering your eyes.
Ozone Depletion May Lead to More Cases of UV-Related Eye Conditions
The ozone layer is the Earth’s main barrier against solar radiation since it absorbs most of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, climate change causes its rapid deterioration, exposing your eyes to harsh UV rays. Your trusted eye care doctor recommends wearing high-quality sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays for your optimum protection.
If you have any further questions about the link between climate change and your eyesight, complete our form to request an appointment. We serve Park Slope, Brooklyn and nearby NY areas.