Monsoon Eyecare: Protect your eyes!
To many of us, the arrival of monsoon means relief. But the season begins with infections as well. The increase in humidity creates the ideal conditions for certain viruses and bacteria to thrive, leaving our health vulnerable to the whims of the season. It is the season of solace, but also several eye infections.
Do not let the rain become a source of discomfort for your eyes! Protect them by following the monsoon eye protection tips in this guide!
Common Eye Infections during Monsoon
Stye
A stye is a fairly common eye infection that is caused when the oil glands in the eye are plugged. This allows bacterial growth in the plugged gland. This infection can be identified by a painful red lump on the side of the eyelid that looks like a boil or pimple. Styes are filled with pus and are caused due to bad hygiene.
Conjunctivitis
Commonly known as Pink Eye, conjunctivitis is caused due to irritation in the conjunctiva. Conjunctiva refers to the white part of the eye. The most notable cause of this infection is either a viral or bacterial infection. It is extremely contagious and must be managed effectively. It is characterised by redness and discomfort in the ocular area.
Keratitis
Keratitis is the inflammation of the cornea. It is mostly caused by injury, disease, or infection. In addition, wearing contact lenses for extended periods can also increase the risk of this infection. Some of its common symptoms are redness in the eyes, blurred vision, and gradual vision loss.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a condition where the eyelids suffer from inflammation. Typically, it is caused due to the plugging of the tiny oil glands on the base of the eyelashes. Usually, this infection can be identified through itching or discomfort near the eyelids. Although not considered to be serious, blepharitis is quite uncomfortable.
Corneal Ulcer
A corneal ulcer is a sore on the cornea. This is mostly caused due to a wound on the surface of the cornea, which is often caused by trauma, injuries, or pre-existing conditions. Appearance-wise, it looks like a white or grey spot on the cornea. Some of its common symptoms include redness and light sensitivity.
Why is the Eye vulnerable to infections during Monsoon?
Bad Hygiene Practices
Poor hygiene is the leading cause of eye infections during the monsoon. Any contact with the eyes, especially immediately after being outdoors, can introduce foreign germs into your ocular area. This, combined with bad cleaning habits, increases the scope for infections.
Contaminated Water
Rainwater, especially in urban areas, often mixes with toxins and pollutants. This creates the ideal circumstance for bacteria and viruses to grow. If you come in contact with splashing raindrops, it increases the risk of infections.
Shared Personal Items
Personal items such as towels, handkerchiefs, and makeup are transmitters of diseases from one person to another. There is a high chance of these things being a breeding ground for several types of bacteria.
Mismanagement of Contact Lenses
If you prefer wearing contact lenses during monsoon, you must be careful. Improper mismanagement of lenses or their use for long periods might increase the chances of infections.
Tips to Avoid Eye Infections during Monsoon
Use Clean Water
Using clean, uncontaminated water is your first line of defence in protecting your eyes from infections during monsoon. You should always try to use filtered water. While rainwater is generally harmless, if you live in an urban area, there is a high chance of it being contaminated. Therefore, even if you use rainwater, you should filter or boil it before use.
Keep Your Eyes Dry
There is a high chance of your eyes becoming wet from rain. Do not let the water soak through. Use a clean, dry towel or cloth to gently wipe it off. Always remember to avoid handkerchiefs or towels that you have used before. This can increase the chances of the spread of germs.
Maintain Proper Hygiene
Hygiene will keep you safe throughout the monsoon. You should try to wash your hands with water frequently. You should also refrain from rubbing your eyes, as it might spread viruses and bacteria.
Use Protective Eyewear
Using protective eyewear can save you from a lot of eye-related conditions, whether it is summer, monsoon, or winter. Wearing sunglasses during the monsoon can help a lot. The sunglasses will act as a barrier, preventing the rainwater entry into your eyes. This will reduce the chance of infections significantly.
Refrain from sharing Personal Items
As noted earlier, personal items are the foremost agents of transferring germs from one body to another. Therefore, do not let items like towels, handkerchiefs, soap, and other items come into contact with you if they have been used before by another person. Like this, you can reduce the spread of germs from one person to another.
Try to stay indoors during Heavy Rain
As much as rain gives people a sense of freedom, please ensure minimum contact with the rainwater during the monsoon. The freedom of monsoon is not worth an eye infection. The airborne allergens will trigger infections and several other complications.
Use Eye Drops
Dabbing your eyes too much with towels can lead to Dry Eye Syndrome. So it is better if you use lubricating eye drops after drying your eyes. These drops will keep your eyes moist and even wash away any pollutants or allergens. However, before making any decision regarding your drops, consult your eye doctor first.
Maintain a Proper Diet
Maintaining a balanced diet can significantly boost your ability to protect your eyes. Considering including foods that are rich in antioxidants and vitamins will be a very wise decision. In addition, remember to stay hydrated as well. It can take the toxins out of your body.
In case of infection, rush to your Eye Doctor!
If you see symptoms like redness and itching around the eyes, blurred vision, or discharge, pay a visit to your doctor at the earliest. Early detection of infection can lead to effective treatment.
Monsoons are great, but do not let them take the joy from your eyes!
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