PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Doctors have advised individuals, especially children, to wear protective glasses while burning crackers during the Deepawali festival. This recommendation comes in response to annual cases of eye injuries, allergies and other issues reported at hospitals due to cracker use. As the festivities have started, doctors are urging people to take precautions and, in any situation, to contact a doctor rather than self-medicate.
Senior eye specialist at Government Doon Medical College (GDMC) hospital Dr Sushil Ojha emphasised that the practice of burning crackers during Deepawali can be hazardous, often leading to serious eye injuries and infections. He said that sparks from crackers can result in injuries, itching, redness and other complications. In some instances, eye injuries can be severe enough to require medical surgeries.
To mitigate these risks, children should always burn crackers under supervision and everyone should wear protective glasses while burning crackers. Additionally, individuals should protect their faces by turning away from the blasts of the crackers. If anyone does sustain an eye injury, it is crucial to consult a doctor immediately, he said.
Another eye specialist Dr Amit Singh said that pollution from crackers and the lack of precautions can lead to eye infections and allergies. While awareness has increased in recent years, cases of eye injuries and infections still appear frequently in the OPD during this time. He advised that individuals may experience irritation, difficulty seeing and other eye problems related to cracker use. Parents should supervise their children closely when they are handling crackers.
To avoid injuries, children should burn crackers under adult supervision. Additionally, every individual should maintain a safe distance, wear protective glasses and have a bucket of water on hand in case of emergencies. Instead of self-medicating, it is vital to consult a doctor as soon as possible in the event of eye injuries or infections caused by crackers, Singh said.
