Bushfires are synonymous with the Australian summer, and backburning in the hills around South East Queensland is also common as authorities work to keep on top of the fuel load in our forests. Not to mention a renewed interest in backyard firepits, following the Covid lockdowns!

As a result, our eyes can be exposed to smoke from time to time, and there's little we can do to escape it when it blankets the city, or wafts over from the neighbour's yard.

Luke Arundel, Optometry Australia’s Chief Clinical Officer, suggests the following tips to help mitigate the burning and stinging effects of smoke to the eyes.

Protect your eyes from bushfire smoke by applying these simple 7 tips:

• Lubricate – One of the best ways to alleviate irritation in your eyes is to lubricate them with eye drops or artificial tears which you can buy over the counter. People with underlying conditions already using eye drops may wish to double their application until the smoke dissipates.
• Don’t rub – Be careful to NOT rub your eyes which can worsen the irritation.
• Take a break from contacts – Contact lens wearers may find smoke particularly problematic and should give their eyes a break from contact lens use if their eyes are experiencing irritation.
• Cool your eyes – Lying down with a cold compress over your eyes can be soothing.
• Stay indoors – particularly if you have an underlying condition that makes you more sensitive to smoke, such as dry eye, it’s best to stay indoors as much as possible.
• Wear glasses or goggles – Specialty goggles that are often prescribed to patients with dry eye can be an effective option for people experiencing sensitivity to smoke in the air. And close-fitting glasses or sunglasses will provide at least some barrier to particle pollution.
• See your optometrist – If your symptoms persist, make an appointment to see us, and we can talk to you about treatment options.

If you need help because you’re suffering from burning or stinging eyes, contact us to book an appointment.