The risk of eye infections increases during summer due to dust, sun, and pollution. This article outlines simple measures to protect your eyes and prevent infections.
Summer brings not only refreshing treats and fresh fruits but also several health concerns. One such concern is eye infections, which can increase rapidly during the summer months. Intense sunlight, dust, sweat, and exposure to viruses and bacteria can damage the eyes. This article explores why eye infections are more prevalent in summer and how to prevent them.
Why Does the Risk of Eye Infections Increase in Summer?
- Intense Sunlight and UV Rays: Summer's b sunlight can damage the delicate skin and retina of the eyes. UV rays can cause eye irritation, inflammation, dryness, and infection. Prolonged exposure to bright sunlight reduces eye protection, leading to long-term effects.
- Dust and Pollution: The amount of dust and pollution in the air significantly increases during summer. When these particles enter the eyes, they can cause irritation, itching, redness, and inflammation. This can lead to conjunctivitis (eye infection) and allergic reactions, further damaging the eyes.
- Sweat and Touching Eyes with Dirty Hands: Sweating is common in hot weather. Touching or rubbing the eyes without washing hands introduces bacteria and viruses, causing eye infections. Persistent problems can lead to more serious infections.
Use of contaminated water: Swimming becomes more common in summer. Chlorine or contaminated water in swimming pools can enter the eyes and cause infection, compromising eye protection, especially if the water is not clean.
Preventing Eye Infections
- Wear UV Protection Glasses: Always wear UV protection glasses in summer to protect against sunlight. These glasses not only shield your eyes from intense sunlight but also offer protection from dust and pollution. They also reduce eye strain and lessen the risk of infection.
- Avoid Touching Your Eyes: We often touch our eyes without washing our hands, introducing bacteria and viruses. This is a major cause of eye infections. Always wash your hands before touching or rubbing your eyes, especially after being outdoors or in public places.
- Rinse Eyes with Cool Water: Rinsing your eyes with cool water 2-3 times a day refreshes them and helps remove dirt. This reduces irritation and inflammation and washes away pollutants and dust.
- Rinse Eyes After Swimming: Swimming in summer can expose eyes to chlorinated or contaminated water, leading to infections. Rinse your eyes with clean water immediately after swimming. Seek medical attention if irritation or other problems arise.
- Proper Screen Use: Prolonged screen time (mobile, laptop, TV) causes dryness and eye strain. Follow the '20-20-20' rule: every 20 minutes, look at a distant object for 20 seconds with your eyes closed. This rests eye muscles and reduces dryness.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Never share towels, kajal (kohl), or handkerchiefs. These can spread bacteria and viruses, causing eye infections. This is especially risky in public places.
Why is Eye Care Important?
Summer necessitates extra eye care due to the increased risk of infections. Intense sunlight, dust, and pollution can harm our eyes. Sweat and touching eyes with dirty hands also spread infections. Simple measures can prevent these problems.
These include frequent rinsing, avoiding touching eyes with dirty hands, and wearing UV protection glasses. If you experience irritation, inflammation, or discomfort, consult a doctor immediately. This way, you can maintain your eye health and avoid summer infections.
