Diwali is a festival of lights, joy, and celebration, but it also comes with a hidden risk: eye problems caused by air pollution. As the streets light up with fireworks, the increase in pollutants can irritate and harm your eyes, especially in places like Delhi, where smog has already triggered a rise in respiratory issues. To tackle the worsening air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated stage two of the anti-pollution plan, GRAP.
The toxic chemicals in firecrackers, including barium and dioxins, can severely affect your eyes, leading to irritation, redness, and even blurred vision. Delhi’s air, filled with particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and heavy metals, can escalate these problems.
In rare instances, this pollution could even lead to ocular surface disease, a severe eye condition that can result in blindness. However, there’s no need to let these concerns dampen your Diwali spirit. These five essential tips to protect your eyes this festive season.
Bursting firecrackers is a tradition for many, but it’s crucial to maintain a safe distance to avoid harmful fumes. Doctors recommends standing at least five meters away when watching fireworks and keeping an arm’s length while lighting them. “Avoid holding firecrackers in your hand to reduce the risk of fumes entering your eyes,” she advises.
During Diwali, it’s easy to get smoke and dust particles in your eyes. Doctors highlights .
