New Delhi: While the monsoon season brings relief from the scorching heat and humidity, the increased humidity also brings with it the risk of many seasonal illnesses. Along with colds, coughs, and fevers, eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, often occur during this season. Viruses and bacteria become highly active during the monsoon season, making people of all ages, especially children, vulnerable. Conjunctivitis is an infectious disease that spreads rapidly from one person to another.
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis, also known as “eye flu” or “pink eye,” is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane of the eye. The conjunctiva covers the white part of the eye and the inner lining of the eyelids. When it becomes infected or allergic, the blood vessels swell, causing the eyes to appear red. This infection spreads rapidly through touching the eyes with dirty hands, visiting crowded areas, and sharing the belongings of an infected person.
Recognize 5 symptoms of conjunctivitis
- Red or pink eyes: This is the most obvious and primary symptom. The infection can cause the whites of the eyes to appear pale pink or dark red.
- Tearing: Due to irritation and infection in the eyes, the problem of continuous watering starts.
- Itching and burning: The patient feels as if a particle of dust or sand is stuck in the eye. Blinking worsens the stinging and burning sensation.
- Sticking of the eyelids: A bacterial infection can cause a yellow or green sticky discharge from the eyes. This can cause the eyelids to stick together and become swollen upon waking in the morning.
- Photophobia: The patient has discomfort in looking at bright light or sunlight and may experience slight blurring of vision.
How to protect yourself
To prevent conjunctivitis and its spread, it is essential to take some simple precautions in daily life. Avoid repeatedly touching or rubbing the eyes without washing hands. Clean hands with soap several times a day. Do not use towels, handkerchiefs, pillowcases, makeup products, or glasses of an infected person. If you experience even slight irritation or redness in your eyes, remove contact lenses immediately and wear glasses until the infection is completely cured. Minimize the use of mobile phones, laptops, and televisions during the infection to avoid additional strain on the eyes. If you experience severe eye pain, excessive blurred vision, or increased discharge, consult an ophthalmologist immediately and do not use any eye drops without medical advice.