As the warm summer months approach, it’s essential to pay attention to eye health. The increased exposure to sunlight, heat, and outdoor activities can lead to various eye conditions. To help understand and prevent these common issues, we spoke with Dr. A K Grover, Senior Consultant, Department of Ophthalmology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, who shared valuable insights and practical advice on keeping your eyes safe and healthy this summer.
Dry Eye Syndrome
One of the most prevalent issues during the summer is dry eye syndrome. Dr. Grover explains, “So one condition that manifests during summer is dry eye. You may be predisposed to dry eye and then the temperature increases, the evaporation increases leading to manifestation as dry eye and this is particularly liable to occur in those who have evaporative dry eye.”
Dry eye can cause discomfort, redness, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. To alleviate symptoms, it’s crucial to stay hydrated and use artificial tears or lubricating eye drops. Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays can also help reduce dryness by protecting the eyes from wind and sunlight.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic reactions are more common in the summer, affecting the external eye. “Eye surface allergy is much more common in summer months, and there is a particular condition in children called spring catarrh or Vernal catarrh, which manifests largely in summer. So that is the other group that is common,” notes Dr. Grover.
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include redness, itching, and watery eyes. To prevent these symptoms, avoid allergens like pollen and dust, and use antihistaminic eye drops, if necessary. Regularly washing hands and not rubbing the eyes can also help minimize the risk of developing allergies.
Infections
Eye infections are another concern during the summer due to the favorable conditions for bacterial growth. “A third group would be infections which are more common because temperature is more conducive to growth of organisms. You get conjunctivitis more often, which is the eye flu,” says Dr. Grover.
Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, causes redness, discharge, and irritation. It’s essential to maintain good hygiene, avoid touching the eyes, and refrain from sharing personal items like towels or makeup to prevent the spread of infection. Dr. Grover advises, “If you take good care of your nutrition and good care of your hydration, you are less likely to get infections.”
Eyelid Infections
Styes and other eyelid infections also become more prevalent in the summer. Dr. Grover explains, “Eyelid infections are more likely because, again, the organisms grow more easily now. They can be prevented by improving one’s resistance and less and less exposure to extreme weather conditions.”
Practicing good hygiene, such as regularly cleaning the eyelids and avoiding eye makeup, can help prevent these infections. If you develop a stye, applying warm compress can provide relief and promote healing.
Prevention Tips
Dr. Grover emphasizes several key prevention strategies for maintaining eye health during the summer:
- Avoid Crowded Places: “The first and foremost thing I said was that you avoid crowded places where the infected people can pass on the infection to you. That is particularly true for conjunctivitis or eye flu.”
- Hand Hygiene: “Avoid touching your eyes very frequently because hand to eye is the most important way in which transmission of infection takes place for the viruses.”
- Nutrition and Hydration: “Good nutrition, good hydration, and good sleep reduce the predisposition to getting infected.”
- Sunglasses: Wearing UV-protective sunglasses can prevent dryness and reduce the risk of sun-related eye damage.
Seeking Medical Advice
Dr. Grover advises seeking medical attention for any significant eye irritation, infection, or persistent discomfort. “Whenever there is a significant eye irritation, discharge, light sensitivity or pain, one should seek advice because some of these viruses also involve the transparent glass in front of the eye, the cornea, and once that occurs, it usually leaves behind a scar, which would last at least a year in many of these cases.”
For conditions like severe dry eye or allergies, consulting an eye doctor can ensure appropriate treatment and prevent complications. Regular eye check-ups are recommended, especially for vulnerable age groups, such as children under 12 and adults over 40.
Protecting your eyes during the summer requires awareness and proactive measures. By following Dr. Grover’s advice on prevention and seeking timely medical attention, you can enjoy the sunny season while keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable. Stay hydrated, wear UV-protective sunglasses, practice good hygiene, and don’t hesitate to consult an eye care professional if you experience any persistent issues.