How air pollution affects the eyes — a review
Abstract
The aim of this study is to present scientific reports concerning the influence of air pollution on eyes. Air pollution
is nowadays a common problem. The most significant pollutants are carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide
(NO2), ozone (O3), sulphur dioxide (SO2), particulate matters — PM10 and PM2.5. The main source of toxins in the
air are cars, burning of the fuels and burning of the charcoal in household stoves. Most attention is paid to negative
effects of air pollution on respiratory system, such as asthma and lung cancer, however, it is worth remembering that
influence on the eyes is equally important. Children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollution.
Anterior segment of the eye is the most exposed. Substances, which are part of the smog have an irritating effect
on the surface of the eye, cause disturbances in the tear film and an inflammation. Medical conditions associated
with increased air pollution are mainly eye irritation, conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome (DES), meibomian gland
dysfunction (MGB) and blepharitis.
Keywords: ophthalmologysmogair pollutionconjunctivitis
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