Don't Rub Your Eyes on Smoggy Days

Fine dust particles have a bad effect on the eyes, and rubbing fine dust particles can cause infections, doctors warn.

Eye doctor Choi Cheol-myeong said, "Rubbing the eyes can cause abrasions in the cornea and lead to infections. Keratitis can cause your vision to deteriorate, so you shouldn't rub your eyes on days when fine dust concentration is high."

People with dry eyes or allergic keratitis are more vulnerable to eye infections.

People who wear contact lenses should opt for glasses instead on smoggy days and keep their eyes moist.

"You need to rinse your eyes when you come home after being outside on dusty days," Choi added. "If your eyes itch, putting ice on them eases the symptoms. If itchiness or inflammation persists, consult a doctor."