Thursday, 22 AUGUST 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
With the ongoing monsoon season, the heightened risk of eye infections including conjunctivitis has increased among people, the doctors here said. They said that the increased humidity during this season leads to a higher prevalence of infections, consequently resulting in eye-related issues. To prevent instances of conjunctivitis, it is advised that individuals prioritise hygiene by regularly washing their hands before touching their eyes, the doctors said.
Talking to The Pioneer, senior eye specialist at the Government Doon Medical College (GDMC) hospital, Dr Sushil Ojha said that he has observed a rise in conjunctivitis cases with the onset of the monsoon season. He said that conjunctivitis infections are more common during this time due to the persistence of the infection in the atmosphere. Symptoms of conjunctivitis include itching sensation in the eyes, redness and pain. Ojha further advised individuals to maintain hygiene in their surroundings to prevent the disease, emphasising the importance of washing hands with soap before touching the eyes. He also stated that conjunctivitis is a contagious disease transmitted through contact. Considering this, individuals should avoid crowded places during the monsoon season.
Further, eye specialist Dr Amit Singh added that he encounters four to five cases of conjunctivitis on a daily basis. He informed that the likelihood of acquiring infections increases during the monsoon season. This in turn leads to the ailment of conjunctivitis. This condition manifests through symptoms such as redness, itching and in severe cases, pain in the eyes. Singh stressed the importance of wearing sunglasses when outdoors to prevent such cases. Additionally, he advised frequent handwashing with soap before touching the eyes. Singh cautioned against using medication without consulting a pharmacist, as it may exacerbate the eye infection in certain instances. He recommended seeking medical advice from a doctor at the first sign of any eye problems to mitigate any negative outcomes. Further, he underscored the importance of children to maintain hygiene practices as they are more susceptible to eye infections like conjunctivitis.
