The havoc that is being caused by climate change is seen everywhere we look as severe storms, extended droughts, forest fires, and flooding is becoming more frequent. You may also notice that the way you see has changed as a direct result of climate change. Does your eyesight change while you’re in different environments? Scientists and eye care professionals are uncovering more and more evidence that the effects of climate change are detrimental to eye health.

The Role of Environmental Factors in Vision Impairment

It’s been known for a very long time that vision loss may be caused by a combination of both genetic and environmental causes. Due to this we highly recommend you check out independent optometrists Perth. Every hour while a person is awake, certain components of the eye, such as the eyelid, cornea, sclera, and lens, are subjected to the external environment. However, the consequences of climate change are presently making eye health problems that are caused by exposure to the environment much more difficult to manage.

Dry Eye Syndrome During Droughts

The condition known as dry eye syndrome occurs when the tear ducts in your eyes do not generate enough fluid to adequately moisten them. The symptoms include stinging, burning, and scratchiness, all of which become significantly more severe when the weather is excessively dry. These symptoms can get more severe and the illness might become more complicated if there is a prolonged drought in some places.

Smog

Particles in the atmosphere and pollution caused by emissions of greenhouse gases are well-known for their ability to aggravate respiratory conditions; nevertheless, they also have an impact on the health of the eyes. When there is a significant concentration of pollutants in the air, those who wear contact lenses may experience considerable discomfort and even pain. Those who suffer from allergies notice a worsening of their symptoms, such as itchy and watery eyes. Conjunctivitis, often known as pink eye, is an inflammatory disease of the membrane that lines the eyelid and the eyeball. This condition can be caused by pollution.

Ultraviolet Radiation

The ozone layer, which has historically shielded humanity from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, is becoming thinner as a direct result of the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. An excessive amount of ultraviolet radiation can, over time, lead to cataracts, corneal burns, and macular degeneration. When you go outside, make sure to safeguard your eyes by donning a pair of premium sunglasses that offer one hundred percent UV protection. Children also need to wear sunglasses since their eyesight is still developing and hence, they are more susceptible to the damaging effects of UV light.

It’s a frequent misconception that you should only have your eyes examined if you experience visual issues. The truth is that regular eye exams are an essential component of ocular care. Because of the increasing threat that climate change has on your vision, we highly recommend finding a good optometrist to have your eyes checked. Without routine eye exams, vision problems frequently occur gradually and may go undiscovered until they are severe and sometimes irreparable.