Monsoon eye infections: Keep your eyesight clear and sharp despite the downpour

Monsoon eye safety tips: Always wash your hands before touching your eyes, and avoid rubbing them, as this can transfer dirt and bacteria, which may lead to infections (Image: Canva)

Come monsoon and your eyes may start feeling heavy, a slight itchiness that you try to brush off. Then, after a day of braving the rain, your vision seems blurry, and your eyes are red and watery. The kajal and mascara you so carefully applied in the morning now sting as they smudge, mixing with the humidity and sweat. Or perhaps, after a long day, you forget to remove your contact lenses, and now, your eyes feel like they’re on fire. It’s easy to overlook these symptoms, but during the monsoon, your eyes require extra care.

Monsoon brings with it a host of eye-related issues, from infections to irritation. According to multiple studies, the combination of increased humidity, pollutants, and allergens creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. Common causes of eye problems during the monsoon include exposure to rainwater, which can carry harmful microbes, and the use of makeup or contact lenses without proper hygiene. These factors, coupled with the tendency to touch your face frequently, can lead to issues like conjunctivitis, styes, and eye allergies.

Check out these easy tips to keep your eyes healthy and happy in the rainy season:

Hygiene: It is important to maintain good eye hygiene, especially during the rainy season. Always wash your hands before touching your eyes, and avoid rubbing them, as this can transfer dirt and bacteria, which may lead to infections.

Makeup removal: Never sleep with eye makeup on. Kajal, mascara, and eyeliner can clog pores and increase the risk of eye infections. Use a gentle eye makeup remover before bed.

Contact lens care: Ensure your contact lenses are clean and sterile. Remove them before sleeping, and never wear them in the rain. Moist environments can cause bacteria to thrive on lenses, leading to serious eye conditions.

Avoid rainwater in your eyes: Try to avoid getting rainwater in your eyes. It may contain pollutants and harmful organisms that can cause infections. If water does get into your eyes, rinse them with clean, sterile water as soon as possible.

Stay hydrated: Your body’s hydration level affects your eyes too. Drink plenty of water to keep your eyes moist and reduce the risk of dryness and irritation, which are common during the monsoon.

Protect your eyes: Remember to wear protective eyewear when going out in heavy rain or polluted areas. Sunglasses or glasses can shield your eyes from direct contact with rainwater and dust particles.