Best Eye Hospital in Jalandhar – Innocent Hearts Eye Centre

Protecting Your Eyes in Summer and Monsoon:

Protecting Your Eyes in Summer and Monsoon

The scorching summer heat, coupled with the unpredictable monsoon season, can pose significant challenges for eye health. Dr. Parul Sharma, a renowned ophthalmologist, sheds light on common eye problems prevalent during these seasons and offers invaluable tips to ensure optimal eye care.

Conjunctivitis

The risk of contracting conjunctivitis skyrockets during summers and monsoons. Exposure to public places, swimming pools, or contact with an infected individual can trigger this condition. Symptoms manifest as redness, irritation, white discharge, and watery eyes. To mitigate the risk:

  • Wash hands regularly with soap.
  • Wear UV-protected sunglasses outdoors.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes.
  • Rinse eyes with cold filtered water.
  • Use well-maintained swimming pools and wear goggles.
  • Avoid sharing personal items like towels with infected individuals.
  • Consult an eye specialist promptly if symptoms persist.

Stye

Styes, common during these seasons, appear on the eyelids. For recurrent styes, ensure eyelid cleanliness, check blood sugar levels, and identify any uncorrected refractive errors. Weekly eyelid scrubs using diluted baby shampoo and warm compressions can offer relief. Hand hygiene remains crucial for prevention.

Eye Allergies

Pollen, rising temperatures, and pollution can exacerbate eye allergies in summer. Symptoms include red eyes, itching, and burning sensations. Regular eye rinses with cold filtered water, cold compressions, protective eyewear, and prescribed eye drops can alleviate discomfort. Avoid over-the-counter medicines containing steroids.

Dry Eyes

Increased temperatures and rapid tear film evaporation can intensify dry eye symptoms, especially with prolonged screen exposure. Regularly closing eyes for brief intervals and using preservative-free lubricating eye drops can offer relief.

Ultraviolet Rays Protection

UV rays can inflict severe damage, leading to cataracts and macular degeneration. UV-protective sunglasses, especially those blocking 99%-100% UV rays or labeled UV400, are essential. Wrap-around sunglasses, polarized lenses, and polycarbonate lenses offer additional protection.

Contact lens users should prioritize lens hygiene, especially in summer. Clean lenses daily, adhere to recommended usage durations, and replace them timely. Avoid contact lenses while swimming and never sleep with them on.

Eyestrain

Extended reading or screen time can strain the eyes. Ensure adequate lighting, proper posture, and regular eye breaks. Lubricating drops can mitigate dryness.

Parents should prioritize regular eye check-ups for children during summer holidays to detect refractive errors or squints. Annual eye check-ups are also vital for diabetics, thyroid patients, and those with a family history of eye conditions. Lastly, a diet rich in green vegetables, carrots, nuts, and colorful fruits, natural sources of vitamin A and carotenoids, is beneficial.