The arrival of the monsoon clouds heralds the arrival of cool breezes and relief from the heat, which is welcome news for all. However, these clouds also indicate the onset of infections, allergies, and eye problems. Red eyes are one of the most frequent complaints eye specialists, including myself, hear during the rainy season.
If you have noticed your eyes being red, itchy, or watery, you are not alone. Let's take a look at what is happening, what it means, and how to protect your eyes in the rainy season under ruthless humidity.
Why are our eyes red during the rainy season?
The rain increases the humidity and spreads the microorganisms present in our environment, creating the perfect environment for infectious agents, viral and bacterial, that target the eye. When your eyes contact water that is contaminated or the dirty objects you manually hand to your eyes yourself (it is very easy to then touch your eye with your hands, surfaces, and devices), the conjunctiva, which is the thin, and transparent covering of the white part of the eye, can be inflamed, which causes conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye, characterized by redness, irritation of the eye, and watery discharge.
However, it is not just infection that can bring about eye irritation. Some of the common reasons include the following:
- Allergies: During the rainy season pollen, dust mites, and fungal spores are all very much more active causing allergic conjunctivities.
- Dryness: Moisture in the air, ironically, does not mean your eyes will be lubricated. Being either indoors with air conditioning all the time or sitting in front of a screen, over a long period of time, can dry the eyes, leading to red appearance.
- Contact lenses: If you are contact lens user, wearing them for long hours in this humid time will potentially lead to increased irritation that is a result of dirt and bacteria building on a contact lens surface.
- Eye Strain: When the natural light diminishes and we spend hours on our screens, especially on gloomy days, we experience something called Digital Eye Strain, which manifests in the eyes as soreness and redness.
Common Symptoms to Look Out For: If you have red eyes, check for the other symptoms that accompany them. These are important for distinguishing whether there's an infection or if it's something less severe:
- Persistent itching or burning sensation
- Watery or sticky discharge (especially in the morning)
- Swelling of the eyelids
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision or mild discomfort with blinking
If you are having multiple symptoms, please avoid home remedies and go to an ophthalmologist as quickly as you can.
Different Causes, Different Treatments: Let's divide the main causes of /to sort out the major causes of red eye in the rainy season and managing them:
1: Viral conjunctivitis. Upper respiratory infections can spread rapidly, especially in schools and offices. As soon as it appears in 1 eye it will find its way to the other within the next few days.
Treatment: Cold compress, lubricating eye drops, strict hygiene. Antibiotics do not help in cases of viral, but could possibly prescribe an anti-inflammatory drop or two for relief of comfort.
2: Bacterial conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis caused by bacteria often has yellow or greenish discharge and/or sticky eyelids in the morning. Treatment: Antibiotic eye drops or ointments as directed.
Solution:Do not share towels or tissues or makeup during your infection, and do not visit an eye doctor with an eye infection.
3: Allergic conjunctivitis. Most commonly caused by allergens that are so abundant in rainy season, including dust or mold, and even when it rains and the temperature can fluctuate suddenly.
Treatment: Antihistamine or anti-allergy drops. Avoid rubbing the eyes, because that can increase the irritation. 4. Dry eyes
A condition often observed in office workers and students who spend prolonged periods staring at a computer screen.
Solution: Artificial tears, stay hydrated, and follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
Monsoon Hygiene Tips to Prevent Red Eyes
Some simple habits can go a long way in ensuring your eyes stay healthy during the rainy season:
- Do not touch your eyes. Germs travel via contaminated hands.
- Use a clean tissue or cotton to wipe the eyes never a shared towel.
- Make sure your spectacles or lenses are always clean. Use a disinfecting solution on a regular basis.
- Keep your distance from people with red eyes. Conjunctivitis spreads easily as droplets travel and touch common surfaces.
- Try your best not to get soaked in the rain. Raindrops may contain pollutants and microbes that will irritate the eye.
- Wash your hands frequently. Use soap or sanitizer, especially if traveling.
- Limit your screen time. Try to decrease your digital strain as well as dryness in the eye.
- Consume an eye healthy diet. Eating leafy greens, carrots, and fruits with Vitamin A will help improve your eye health.
- Do not self-medicate. Over-the-counter drops or medication may aggravate the eye condition if used improperly.
- Replace expired eye makeup. Bacteria thrive in mascara and eyeliner tubes; discard them after three months.
When to visit a physician immediately
Never ignore your symptoms if...
- The redness lasts longer than three days.
- You have eye pain or any change in vision.
- You notice thick discharge or swelling.
- You also have a fever, or feel ill with eye irritation.
All of the above could suggest a more serious infection such as keratitis or uveitis and should seek professional help immediately.
How The Eye Foundation can provide assistance
At The Eye Foundation, our specialists understand how monsoon infections can affect both your comfort and vision. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools to determine the exact cause of your red eyes - viral, bacterial, or allergic (so) we can provide a specific treatment protocol that will work rapidly for your eyes as well.
We offer:
- An eye examination from expert ophthalmologist specializing in corneal and external eye diseases
- Access to specialized eye care facilities that include sterile eye examination areas.
- Protocols for fast acting, safe eye medications
- Family-friendly practice with discharge teaching, and preventative eye hygiene tips for children.
- Our clinics are designed to provide eye care for all forms of eye irritation and redness - quickly and safely so that you can get back to your clear vision and comfort.
Red eyes in the rainy season are more than a minor irritation. It is a signal that your eyes are reacting to something harmful in the environment. Knowing the cause of the eye condition and seeking professional medical care at The Eye Foundation is essential to prevent complications and ensure the long-term health of your eyes. Their expert team provides proper diagnosis and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
Schedule your appointment now, so that you can feel assured of your bright healthy vision, rain or shine!
