The number of eye infections during monsoon significantly increases due to viral and bacterial infections and increased exposure to allergens. Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a common infectious eye infection during this season. It can be brought on by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or other irritants. It cannot always be avoided, however, there are certain precautions you may take to lessen the chance of contracting or spreading the infection.
In this article, Dr Nikhil Seth, Senior Consultant, Ophthalmologist, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, listed tips to prevent conjunctivitis during monsoon.
Tips To Prevent Conjunctivitis
Dr Seth said, “Conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids, becomes inflamed and infected.” According to the Journal of Ophthalmic and Vision Research, Nearly half of the population experiences allergic conjunctivitis, which is characterised by itchiness, mucoid discharge, chemosis, and oedema of the eyelids. Here are some tips you should follow to prevent this eye infection:
Maintain Hygiene
Dr Seth said, “You should maintain proper hygiene by routinely washing your hands with soap and water, particularly before touching your eyes. As touching or rubbing your eyes might spread bacteria from your hands to your eyes, avoid doing so.” Keep your hands away from your face and rub your eyes. Using unclean hands to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth can spread germs into your eyes and one can get infected.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items
You should avoid sharing personal items like towels, washcloths, pillows, eye drops, and contact lenses, or eye makeup. This is because conjunctivitis is highly contagious, and sharing personal items can easily spread the infection.
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Keep Surfaces Clean
Surfaces that are regularly touched, such as doorknobs, light switches, and electronic gadgets, should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. This helps reduce the risk of infection transmission.
Avoid Close Contact With The Infected
Dr Seth suggested avoiding close contact with infected people or if you know someone who has conjunctivitis until the disease has cleared up.
Keep Your Contact Lenses Clean
If you wear contacts, make sure to clean and store them according to your eye doctor's recommendations. Except with your eye doctor's permission, avoid sleeping with your contacts in. You should also regularly clean eyeglasses and sunglasses with lens cleaner or mild soap and water to remove any potential irritants or contaminants.
Avoid Eye Irritants and Allergens
Dr Seth said, “If you are aware that you are sensitive to a particular irritant or allergy, attempt to limit your exposure to it. This can lessen the chance of developing allergic conjunctivitis.”
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A strong immune system helps fend off infections, so prioritise your overall health to prevent conjunctivitis. Eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can all help you feel better overall, which can lower your chance of acquiring infections like conjunctivitis.
Wear Protective Eyewear
Dr Seth said, “You should wear protective eyewear if you work in an area where there is a chance of eye damage or exposure to hazardous materials to avoid eye infections. This shields your eyes from potential harm.”
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Keep Swimming Pools Clean
If you enjoy swimming, make sure the pool you're using is properly maintained and treated with chlorine or other disinfectants. Swimming in contaminated water can lead to conjunctivitis, commonly known as ‘swimming pool conjunctivitis’.
Bottomline
Dr Seth concluded, “It's critical to consult a doctor or an ophthalmologist if you think you have conjunctivitis or suffer symptoms like redness, irritation, discharge, or pain in your eyes. Based on the type of conjunctivitis you have, your doctor can make a correct diagnosis and suggest the best course of action.”
Disclaimer
The information in this article is shared by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to visit your eye expert immediately if you notice any symptoms.
