Don’t Let Monsoons Ruin Your Eye Health; Enjoy Them to the Fullest!

It says, “Every coin has two sides.” 

This phrase perfectly suits monsoons, as they remove all the heat from the environment and give everyone a cool feeling. However, we also can’t ignore that sudden changes in the weather due to monsoons increase the risk of several infections. 

Eye infections are one of them. Humidity, rainwater logging, and an increase in bacteria and pathogens can result in a rise in eye infections. Many common viral eye infections can be cured on their own. However, intense bacterial eye infections need experts' supervision. 

Monsoon arrives. Let’s discover the most common and yet not-so-common eye infections that happen during monsoons to be careful about. 

5 different potential eye infections and how to treat them. 

Here is a list of eye infections one experiences during the rainy season, which lasts from June to September: 

• Conjunctivitis: One of the most common spreads of monsoons is conjunctivitis. Also known as pink eye, viruses or infections cause this eye infection. It is generally contagious as soon as symptoms appear and can remain so as long as the symptoms last. Pink eye is characterized by redness, itchiness, and watery discharge from the eyes. Even coming into contact with infected individuals or touching contaminated surfaces can put you in trouble. 
• Stye (Sty): Also known as hordeolum, this eye infection of the oil glands in the eyelid is mainly caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. It is usually painful, appearing as a red, painful lump on the eyelid, and can be quite sore, causing swelling and discomfort. Maintaining good hand hygiene is a must to avoid monsoon-related allergies, resulting in styles. 
• Corneal ulcers: Also known as fungal infection, parasites and pathogens such as viruses and bacteria characterize fungal keratitis, which is open sores on the cornea. Avoid going out in the rain, as the dangers of corneal ulcers increase during the monsoons. These ulcers can cause severe pain, redness, tearing, or discharge from the eyes. 

Also read: 

https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/health/fungal-infections-of-the-skin-symptoms-causes-and-treatment/ 

• Blepharitis: It is inflammation of the eyelids caused by bacterial infections, allergies, or skin conditions. It is a common eye condition in monsoons when your eyes turn red, cause itchiness, and even get swollen, forming flaky skin around your eyes. Wet and humid conditions can aggravate this condition; however, eyelid hygiene and medications are the best ways to manage blepharitis. 
• Dacryocystitis: The blockage in the tear ducts forms dacryocystitis. This eye infection occurs in the tear (lacrimal) sac, and it causes pain, redness, and swelling near the inner corner of the eye. You may also experience tearing and discharge in the eye. You are at a greater risk of getting respiratory infections during monsoons, which can lead to dacryocystitis. 

In short, monsoons can be defying due to infections and disorders. The elevated dampness in the air allows pathogens and bacteria to increase infections. However, following a few tips, you can protect your eyes and maintain their beauty, which lasts forever. 

7 practical tips to safeguard your eyes during the rainy season: 

As the monsoon arrives, experts emphasize that maintaining eye hygiene is important. Below are some helpful tips for safeguarding your eyes during the monsoons and keeping their beauty intact. 

• Maintain good personal hygiene: One of the primary ways to prevent an eye infection during the monsoons is to maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your face. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with dirty hands, as this can introduce infection-causing germs. 
• No sharing of towels or personal items: No doubt sharing is caring, but not always. Monsoons bring relief from the scorching heat, but they do cause illness and infections. Do not share towels, tissues, or any personal item with anyone to prevent cross-contamination. Also, make sure they are washed regularly with hot water and detergent to kill any bacteria that may be present in them. 
• Keep your surroundings clean. Keep your home and work areas neat and clean. The dust and allergens on the surfaces can irritate your eyes, causing an infection that can be dangerous. In addition, make sure your contact lenses or spectacles are cleaned properly, you wear them with clean hands, and you store them hygienically. 

Also read: 

https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/web-stories/6-vegetables-that-are-good-for-your-eye-health/ 

• Wear protective sunglasses. Our eyes are delicate, so you need to handle them more carefully. If you venture outdoors during monsoons, wearing protective eyewear or sunglasses is necessary to safeguard your eyes from rainwater, pollutants, dust, and debris. 
• Use preservative-free lubricants. During the rainy season, eye infections or irritations are very common. Preservative-free eye lubricants will keep your eyes moist and comfortable. 
• Seek immediate medical attention. If you experience redness, itchiness, discharge, or sensitivity in your eyes, do not delay. Seek immediate medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 
• Keep yourself updated: It is crucial to keep yourself updated on changes in weather conditions and how you can protect yourself from humidity and allergies. Take preventive measures proactively to reduce intense eye exposure. 

Conclusion: 

These are our recommendations to help protect your eyes from infections and discomfort caused during the monsoons. Remember, prevention is better than cure. So, prioritize hygiene throughout the rainy months to maintain good eye health. Besides, keeping these simple suggestions in mind can prove beneficial in ensuring your eyes stay healthy despite the challenges of the monsoon.