Eye experts recommend people in California working in areas of the wildfires wear protective eye wear -- especially when moving objects coated in ash or dust.

"Even a healthy person’s eyes can be bothered by prolonged exposure to smoke," Dr. Robert N. Weinreb of the University of California, San Diego -- a clinical correspondent for the American Academy of Ophthalmology -- said in a statement. "Exposure to smoke can also exacerbate symptoms for some patients, particularly those with dry eye syndrome."

Exposure to smoke can cause irritation, with symptoms such as burning sensations, redness and tearing. Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief from smoke-related irritation, however, if symptoms persist for longer than several days, people should consult an ophthalmologist, Weinreb advised.

One eye hazard can linger even after the smoke is gone because barely visible ash and dust can remain in fire-devastated areas for up to two weeks after fires have been extinguished, Weinreb said.  // Copyright 2007 by United Press International



Publication date: 29 October 2007   

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