- By Prerna Targhotra
- Tue, 23 Jul 2024 06:25 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Tips To Prevent Conjunctivitis And Stye: Monsoon is referred to as the flu season by healthcare practitioners. The presence of allergens in the environment coupled with pollution and moisture in the atmosphere becomes conducive for microbial growth like bacteria, viruses or fungi. While people tend to prefer the monsoon immediately after summer and to any other season, it comes at a cost, with a potential range of health complications. It is crucial to take necessary precautions to reduce the risk of viral or bacterial infections, water-borne diseases and even eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and stye.
Dr Savitha Arun, Director, Medical Superintendent & Senior Consultant - Anterior Segment and Electrophysiology, Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Bengaluru explains that conjunctivitis, commonly known as ‘Eye Flu’ or ‘Pink Eye’, is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin transparent membrane or clear tissue lining the inner surface of our eyelids and covering the white part of our eyes.
What Is Stye?
A stye is caused due to a clogged oil gland on our eyelids, as a result of bacterial infection. It looks more like a pimple (acne), causes redness and swelling in the eyes and sometimes could be extremely painful as well. Symptoms are presented similarly to conjunctivitis, but it is non-contagious and there is a key sign to watch out for. The presence of a red lump at the edge of the eyelid is the primary difference between a stye and pink eye.
ALSO READ: What Is Eyelid Dermatitis And How It Aggravates In Monsoon? Know Ways To Prevent It From Expert
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
A second form of conjunctivitis also occurs due to bacterial infection. Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused when bacteria exacerbate and infect the conjunctiva, primarily through droplet infection. Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are both contagious and can easily spread from one person to another, whereas allergic conjunctivitis, caused by allergens like pollen, pet dander or chlorine from swimming pools, is not contagious. Conjunctivitis generally spreads by touch or contact (direct or indirect), especially in children at school. Hence, it is crucial to maintain personal hygiene and consult an ophthalmologist.
Tips To Prevent Conjunctivitis And Styes
Maintain Good Eye Hygiene: Prevent seasonal eye infections by practising good hygiene. Refrain from sharing items like towels, napkins, handkerchiefs, pillow covers, cosmetics, make-up and personal care items to minimise infection risks. Wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of germs.
Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Resist the urge to rub your eyes at all times, as rubbing can cause redness, irritation, and potentially the spread of germs, leading to infections. Instead, use a warm compress or artificial tears if needed for relief. Consult your ophthalmologist for treatment, in case of irritation.
Tips To Prevent Conjunctivitis And Styes (Image Credits: Canva)
Wash Your Eyes Regularly: After coming indoors during monsoon, wash your eyes with cold water. In case of dust storms before rain, make sure to rinse your eyes immediately. Debris-like dust particles and dirt cause eye irritation in general and could lead to eye infections.
Wear Sunglasses and Goggles: It is important to cover your eyes with goggles or shades while being in swimming pools and avail protection while heading out. When outdoors, use sunglasses or goggles to shield the eyes from rain, UV protection and airborne diseases.
Hydrate Your Body and Eyes: Proper hydration is a fundamental aspect of preserving eye health during any season. It is important to stay hydrated with 6-8 glasses of water daily, to maintain the natural salt balance of the body, which further helps in boosting eye health significantly.
Nutrient-Rich Diet for Eyes: A well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet plays a vital role in preserving optimal eye function. Fruits and green leafy vegetables are rich in essential vitamins, including A, C, and E, as well as minerals and antioxidants such as zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin.
Warm Compress Therapy for Stye: Apply a warm compress to your eyelids for 5 minutes to provide symptomatic relief. In case of any eye discharge, gently wipe away with a clean cloth and lukewarm water. You can also use eyelid wipes and apply antibiotic ointment to the eyelids.