Protecting your eyes from volcanic ash pollution

The Eyecare Trust has issued the following eye health advice as volcanic ash cloud from Iceland’s Grimsvötn volcano hits the UK.

Forecasters predict that high concentrations of volcanic ash (>4000 micograms of ash per cubic metre of air) will hit Scottish lowlands, the Borders and the North and East of England with lower levels (up to c. 2000 mgs per cm) affecting the rest of the country*.

Air polluted by volcanic ash can leave your eyes feeling irritated and uncomfortable. Typical symptoms resulting from contact with ash particles include:

• A constant feeling that you have grit or dust in your eye
• Painful, itchy or bloodshot eyes
• Excessive tearing
• A sticky discharge
  

Those most at risk include contact lens wearers and people who suffer from dry eye. Symptoms may also be worse in urban areas where air quality is already poor.

To minimise potential eye irritation the Trust has issued the following advice…

• Wear sunglasses (wrap-around styles are best) to prevent pollutants entering your eyes
• Stay indoors when pollution levels are at their peak
• Apply a cool compress to relieve discomfort
• Lubricating eye drops may help prevent soreness or itching
• Contact lens wearers should remove their lenses at the first sign of eye irritation and thoroughly clean them in their medicated cleaning solution
  
  

If symptoms persist you should seek advice from your local optometrist.

* http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/volcano/public/eurasia.html