Diwali Eye Safety: Diwali It is a festival of light, joy and excitement. Lighting of lights, beautiful rangolis, snacks and crackers add to the joy of Diwali. However, in this celebration of joy, we neglect the safety of our eyes. Eye injuries caused by firecrackers can be serious and sometimes lead to permanent vision loss. About this Dr. Shruti Wasnik, Consultant Ophthalmologist, (Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Services), Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai has given detailed information. Let's find out. (Photo Courtesy – AI)
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What types of eye injuries can fireworks cause?
- Sparks, flames, smoke, chemicals and particles from explosions can cause eye damage. This can lead to the following problems.
- Burning, redness and watering of the eyes.
- Damage to the transparent membrane of the eye (cornea).
- Burning of the eyelids and skin around the eyes.
- Bleeding from damage to the inner part of the eye.
- Damage to the membrane of the eye (retina).
- Serious injuries can result in permanent vision loss or blindness, especially when bystanders are at just as much risk as the firecracker. Children are more prone to these injuries.
What precautions should be taken to protect the eyes?
- Preferably enjoy public fireworks displays that are safe and under expert supervision, rather than bursting firecrackers.
- Keep a safe distance while bursting crackers. Do not stand too close to firecrackers.
- Children should never be allowed to burst crackers alone. Adults should keep a constant watch on them.
- Keep your face and eyes at a safe distance when lighting fireworks, pomegranates, rockets or other fireworks.
- Protective Eyewear of suitable quality should be used while bursting firecrackers. Simple sunglasses are not enough protection against fireworks.
- Do not approach or attempt to re-light a firecracker once lit if it does not explode.
- Wash your hands after bursting crackers. Do not touch your eyes without washing your hands.
- Smoke and pollution can cause eye allergies, itching and irritation. Do not rub your eyes at this time.
What to do in case of eye injury due to firecrackers?
- In case of eye damage due to firecrackers, it is very important to consult an ophthalmologist without delay.
- Do not rub or apply pressure to the eye.
- Do not attempt to remove a particle or object that has entered the eye yourself.
- Do not apply any home remedies, oils or medicated ointments to the eyes.
- If there is a suspicion of an object entering the eye or a serious injury, go to the hospital immediately without applying pressure to the eye.
- If only minor smoke or dust burns occur, flush eyes with clean water. However, if an injury is suspected, a medical examination should be done immediately.
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Remember, even if an eye injury seems minor at first, it can have serious consequences. Therefore, in case of any injury, there should be no delay in getting checked.