Eye Problems In Monsoon: As the monsoon season intensifies in Delhi, the city has experienced continuous heavy rainfall for several days, along with sporadic hourly rains since late June.
Advice: Prevention includes regular hand washing and avoiding eye contact with your hands.
Avoid Self-Medication: Do not use over-the-counter eye drops without consulting an ophthalmologist, as they may contain steroids.
Clean Contact Lenses: Clean your contact lenses daily, even when not in use.
Use Lubricating Eye Drops: For dry eyes, use lubricating eye drops as prescribed.
Eye Problems In Monsoon: As the monsoon season intensifies in Delhi, the city has experienced continuous heavy rainfall for several days, along with sporadic hourly rains since late June. While monsoons are essential, they also bring various viral and bacterial infections, including conjunctivitis, eye allergies, and infections affecting the gut, and respiratory tract.
Dr Priyanka Singh (MBBS, MS, DNB, FAICO), Consultant and Eye Surgeon at Neytra Eye Centre in New Delhi said that to fully enjoy the monsoon season while protecting your eyes from infections, it's important to take certain precautions. Here are some common eye issues to be mindful of during the monsoons:
Common Eye Problems In Monsoon
Conjunctivitis: Also known as pink eye is caused by bacterial and/or viral infections. Symptoms include redness, swelling, yellow sticky discharge, and irritation. These symptoms are exacerbated by high humidity.
Advice: Prevention includes regular hand washing and avoiding eye contact with your hands. Consult an ophthalmologist at the first sign of symptoms.
ALSO READ: How Skin’s Demands Change From Morning To Night? Dermatologist's Guide To Optimal Skincare
Eyelid Infections: The hot and humid weather increases the risk of eyelid infections such as styes or chalazions.
Advice: Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes and do not share towels, makeup, handkerchiefs, or other personal items.
Dacryocystitis: This infection of the lacrimal sac occurs when tear drainage from the eyes to the nose is blocked, leading to microbial growth, swelling, and pain in the inner eye. Individuals with frequent tearing are more susceptible to humid weather.
Advice: Consult an oculoplastic surgeon if you experience these symptoms.
Dry Eyes: Although dry eyes can occur in any season, they are common during the monsoons due to disturbances in the tear film, making eyes prone to allergies and infections.
Advice: Repetitive lubrication with prescribed eye drops can alleviate this issue.
Common Eye Problems In Monsoon (Image Credits: Canva)
Essential Eye Care Tips During Monsoons
Protect your eyes from rainwater: Enjoy the weather, but remember that rainwater can carry irritants, pollutants, bacteria, and viruses. If rainwater enters your eyes, rinse them with clean water.
Care for Eyewear: Keep contact lenses and glasses clean. Carry contact lens solution and clean your glasses with a clean handkerchief or linen cloth regularly.
Wash Hands Frequently: Conjunctivitis spreads through physical contact, not by looking at an infected person. Wash your hands regularly to prevent infections.
Avoid Self-Medication: Do not use over-the-counter eye drops without consulting an ophthalmologist, as they may contain steroids.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share cosmetics, pillow covers, handkerchiefs, and face towels during the rainy season.
Clean Contact Lenses: Clean your contact lenses daily, even when not in use.
Discard Expired Products: Throw away expired eye cosmetics, contact lens solutions, or any old products.
Use Lubricating Eye Drops: For dry eyes, use lubricating eye drops as prescribed.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention: If you notice any eye infection symptoms, consult an eye specialist immediately to prevent spreading the infection.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce screen time to avoid unnecessary eye strain.
ALSO READ: 4 Probable Reasons Why Your Forehead Acne Is Not Going Away | Home Remedies To Try