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Monsoon season not only brings relief from the scorching heat but it also brings a host of health issues including a spike in eye infections due to humidity. High moisture and humidity levels in monsoons allow bacteria and viruses to grow rapidly. Rainwater itself contains many pollutants and microbes. These combined with excessive sweating and any carelessness on our part, pave the way for multiple eye problems. Eye infections like conjunctivitis, stye, fungal infections and allergic reactions are frequently encountered in monsoon season.

In a conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Payal Gupta - Consultant Ophthalmology, Fortis Hospital Greater Noida listed common eye infections that occur during monsoon and how they can be prevented.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) is basically an infection of the eye by virus/ bacteria and is characterised by redness, discharge and mild pain or itching. It is highly contagious and spreads through fomites. Therefore, the key to prevention is to maintain strict hygiene and never to touch the eyes with unclean hands.

ALSO READ: How To Protect Yourself From Conjunctivitis And Stye During This Monsoon? Expert Explains

Common Eye Problems During Monsoon

Styes are infections of the oil glands of the eyes presenting as painful swelling at the lid margin near the lash line.

Long-term exposure to moisture can also lead to fungal infections, especially in individuals with compromised immunity (young, elderly and diabetic patients.

Other common eye problems that can be encountered in the monsoon season are dry eyes, allergic conjunctivitis and blepharitis.

ALSO READ: Eye Infections Rise In Monsoon: 7 Expert-Approved Tips To Protect Your Vision

The best preventive key against all these is to-

Maintain good hand hygiene. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water and, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with dirty hands.

Protect your eyes from rainwater and avoid swimming in pools, especially during outbreaks of conjunctivitis.

Do not share towels, handkerchiefs or goggles as they can spread infection.

Always remove eye makeup before sleeping. If you use contact lenses take extra care to use, remove, clean and store them.

If you are in contact with an infected person, take extra precautions to prevent transmission.

By taking preventive steps, you can protect your eyes and can enjoy the rainy season without compromising your vision.