BERKLEY, Mich. – Canadian wildfires have pushed hazardous air conditions towards Michigan; for those at risk, smoke can be dangerous for eye health.
Local 4 spoke with Christopher Sesi, an ophthalmologist at Shanbom Eye Specialist in Berkeley.
Wildfire smoke particles can worsen conditions for those predisposed to chronic irritation.
According to Dr. Sesi, those at risk are the elderly, children, those with dry eye syndrome, those with eyes susceptible to allergies, those with blepharitis, and those who have had recent eye surgery.
Dr. Sesi recommends those at risk to use preservative-free artificial eyes to rid themselves of particles adhering to the eyes.
According to Dr. Sesi preservative-free artificial eyes can be used an uunlimited amount of times, if you do not have a preservative-free bottle, make sure to not use more than 2-4 times in one day.
Instead of rubbing eyes, Dr. Sesi recommends putting pressure on the rim and bone around the eye, rubbing around the skin, and overall avoiding pressure on the eyeball.
During this time, those at risk should avoid dirty water types, including hot tubs, pools, and lakes.
“Take it seriously so that your quality of life and your comfort are not jeopardized,” said Dr. Sesi.
Dr. Sesi says to seek help if exposure has led to eye redness, a gritty feeling in the eyes, blurry vision, pain, sensitivity, or any worsening of eye symptoms.