Monsoon is the time when we become more prone to infections. Thanks to problems like waterlogging and inadequate drainage, maintaining good hygiene gets difficult.

Water-borne and contagious diseases spread to become epidemics. “The surface of the eyes, being in constant contact with the environment, is prone to infections. It is therefore important to maintain good hygiene by repeated washing of hands with soap, avoid crowded places and

especially clean hands after touching a pet,” says Dr Umang Mathur, associate medical director, Dr Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital.

The possible ailments that can happen if one does not take proper care
Eye flu or conjunctivitis cases increase with the advent of the monsoon. Explains Dr Mathur, “Conjunctivitis is usually caused by virus but sometimes may be caused by bacteria. Viral conjunctivitis is usually self-limiting but sometimes may become more serious and affect the cornea. Fungal infections are also more common during this period.”

Primary causes and symptoms
Symptoms of eye flu are redness and discharge from eyes. In severe cases, it may cause swelling and puffiness of the eyelids and may be accompanied with mild fever and body ache. Sometimes it may be accompanied by itching and sensitivity to light. “People engaged in agricultural activity are vulnerable to plants and animal infected with fungus. Fungal corneal ulcers are difficult to treat and may permanently damage the eye,” adds Dr Mathur. The symptoms of viral conjunctivitis take time to disappear. It is important to keep the eyes clean by washing with sterile water and wiping with fresh tissues. “Your eye care practitioner may like to prescribe antibiotic drops. However, do not indulge in self-medication and you should consult an ophthalmologist before instilling any medication,” says Dr Mathur.

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