Clouds of volcanic ash over the UK for the second year in succession have prompted the Eyecare Trust to issue eye health advice to minimise eye irritation.
The charity said air polluted by volcanic ash, such as that expelled from the Grimsvötn volcano, could leave eyes feeling irritated and uncomfortable. Typical symptoms included a constant feeling of grit or dust in the eye, painful, itchy or bloodshot eyes, excessive tearing or sticky discharge.
The Trust said those most at risk were contact lens wearers and people who suffered from dry eye, while symptoms might also be worse in urban areas where the air quality was already poor.
To minimise potential eye irritation it advised people to wear wrap-around style sunglasses to prevent pollutants entering the eyes. It also said they should stay indoors when pollution levels were at their peak, apply cool compresses to relieve any discomfort, and use lubricating eye drops to prevent soreness or itching.
It stated that contact lens wearers should remove their lenses at the first sign of eye irritation and thoroughly clean them in their medicated cleaning solution.
