Monsoon has definitely brought some relief from the scorching summer heat but, it has also brought along an increased risk of eye infections. Diseases like conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, eye styes are common in monsoon as direct contact between the eye and the rainwater can cause the infection. And many of us tend to treat them at home rather than visiting a doctor. The most common symptoms of eye infections are swelling, redness or burning sensation in the eye and it is important to not self-medicate and visit an ophthalmologist immediately. Read: How to avoid monsoon related diseases
Corneal ulcers: It is one of the most serious forms of an eye infection as the cornea develops an open sore and if not treated properly can lead to blindness and hence it is important to visit a doctor immediately and not delay the treatment.
Symptoms: Extreme pain, pus discharge and blurred vision.
Eye Styes: It is a bacterial infection and appears as a lump on the eye. It can be initially treated by using warm , cold compresses and eye drops. But if the lump increases it is important to visit the doctor.
Symptoms: Excruciating pain, pus discharge, redness over eyelids.
Here are a few tips you can follow to prevent eye infections this monsoon:
1. Avoid sharing towels and other personal items as infections mostly spread through hands, clothes and other commonly touched items.
2. If you are suffering from conjunctivitis, you should avoid touching your eye and wash your hands after administering eye drops.
3. Avoid over-the-counter eye drops as they may contain steroids that can be harmful.
4. Avoid using contact lenses if you have an eye infection and wear glasses instead.
5. Wash hands after coming from outside to prevent any sort of bacterial accumulation.
6. Keep your children away from puddles and water-logged areas, as such areas are highly bacteria prone.
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With inputs from IANS
Image source: Getty Images
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