Monsoon, though enchanting, brings with it an array of medical problems, allergies, and infections. Wet surroundings and high levels of humidity coupled with a general decrease in immunity due to associated infections and allergies, especially of the paranasal sinuses and upper respiratory tract, make the eyes more prone to various ailments. One of the most common eye infections during monsoons is Conjunctivitis.
Below we share some knowledge and tips put together by eye specialists at Krishna Netralaya to help you avoid Conjunctivitis and other eye problems during monsoons.
What causes Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is caused either by Enterovirus or Adenovirus. While the former leads to pharyngoconjunctival fever, which includes sore throat, fever and conjunctivitis, the latter causes haemorrhagic conjunctivitis (10 to 20% of the cases belong to this category).
What are the typical symptoms of Conjunctivitis?
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Sensation of a foreign body in the eye, often described as feeling of sand inside the eye, irritation, and heaviness
of eyes. - Watering, discharge, and redness. Usually, one eye gets affected first followed by the other. Sometimes mucous or pus like yellowish discharge may glue the lids together especially on waking up in the morning.
- The inner corners of the eye and the inner parts of the lids may swell and turn red.
- Sensitivity to light and appearance of red spots, swelling of the glands in front of the ears, fever and common cold with throat ache can be associated with certain subtypes of viral conjunctivitis.
What precautions can we take to avoid Conjuntivitis?
- Conjunctivitis spreads through direct contact with the eye secretions, so, affected persons should isolate their personal belongings — have separate soaps, towels, pillow covers, etc.
- Use disposable tissues instead of handkerchiefs or towels to dab the eyes. Do not rub the eyes.
- Avoid crowded places as Conjunctivitis is contagious.
- Avoid closed air-conditioned places as the infection spreads faster in such environments.
- Do not sleep on the unaffected side as secretions from the affected eye may trickle into it and spread the infection to it.
What can we do to avoid other eye problems during monsoons?
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently.
- Use filtered water to wash eyes once a day.
- Take a warm water bath if you get drenched in rain.
- Maintain good contact lens hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly before wearing and taking off lenses.
- Do not wear contact lenses while swimming. If you use them by mistake, get a new pair.
- If you are trekking or cycling through the forest, wear protective eye gear.
- Avoid rubbing eyes when there is irritation in the eyes.
- Do not use common hand towels
- Seek medical attention if you have symptoms
Read about other eye problems and treatments at www.krishnanetralaya.com/eye-care-services
Have more questions about Eye Problems ? Schedule a consultation with our eye specialists www.krishnanetralaya.com/book-appointment
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Dr Aditi Agarwal
Medical Director & Senior Eye Surgeon
One of the best Cataract, Cornea and Lasik eye surgeon in Gurgaon.
Exp: 20 Yrs