Monsoon Eye Care Tips: Dr Amit Solanki Warns Against Pink Eye During Rainy Season
The arrival of the monsoon may bring respite from the heat, but it also marks the season when eye infections become more common, according to ophthalmologist Dr Amit Solanki, who urged students and parents at Urjasvini Special School, Indore, to prioritise hygiene to protect their eye health.
Dr Solanki shared the advisory while interacting with students and participants during an awareness programme and eye camp organised by Create Stories NGO at the school.
He said humid weather during the rainy season creates favourable conditions for bacteria and viruses, leading to a rise in cases of conjunctivitis, styes and dry eye syndrome.
"The most fundamental rule for maintaining healthy eyes during the monsoon is ensuring strict personal hygiene," Dr Solanki said.
He warned against allowing rainwater to enter the eyes, saying it could contain pollutants and chemicals capable of causing irritation, inflammation and infection.
"If you accidentally get drenched in the rain, immediately wash your eyes gently with clean, lukewarm water and pat them dry using a clean, soft towel," he said.
Dr Solanki said rubbing or touching the eyes with unwashed hands remained one of the leading causes of seasonal eye infections, as germs could easily spread through contact. He also advised families to keep towels, handkerchiefs and pillowcases used by an infected person separate to prevent the infection from spreading within the household.
Speaking about contact lens use, Dr Solanki said spectacles were a safer choice during the monsoon because moisture trapped beneath contact lenses could promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of corneal ulcers.
"Do not use over-the-counter eye drops or antibiotics without consulting an ophthalmologist," he said, adding that eye cosmetics should not be shared.
He also urged people to wash their hands thoroughly after returning from outdoors and before touching their eyes.
Advising against rubbing irritated eyes, Dr Solanki recommended rinsing them gently with clean water instead.
He further called on people to avoid stagnant water and public swimming pools during the monsoon and to exercise caution while using contact lenses to reduce the risk of infection.
