New Growth Sector In India - Treating Pinkeye Caused By Air Pollution

LUDHIANA: The ever-increasing air pollution levels in city has started to take a toll on the eyes as increasing number of allergic conjunctivitis cases are being reported in city hospitals.

Experts opine exposure to high level of pollutants post-Diwali and stubble burning is causing the problem. Allergic conjunctivitis, which is not contagious, causes one's eyes to become watery, red, swollen, itchy and often painful. A person develops the condition when exposed to an allergic or sensitive substance, also known as an allergen. Trees, grass, weeds and flowers release the allergen pollen into the air. It can also develop in damp atmospheres within the home, such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Reporting an increase in the number of pink eye cases, Dr G S Bajwa, head of department of ophthalmology at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), said, "The number of allergic conjunctivitis cases usually fall in winter, but post Diwali these have increased by 10 to 15% due to bursting of crackers. Add to that air pollution levels in city are on a constant upward acceleration because of increase in the number of vehicles and diesel generators as well as increase in the dust particles due to rise in construction activities and bad conditions of roads."

Dr Satish Thomas, professor in ophthalmology at Christian Medical College and Hospital (CMCH), said, "Ludhiana is an industrial city — clearly the pollution levels here are high. And thus we get pink eye cases all around the year. However, this year these shot up drastically with Diwali and stubble burning."

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