Essential Eye Care Tips During Rainy Season

Dr.Prashaant Chaudhry, 3 mins read

The monsoon season brings much-needed relief from the scorching summer and a sense of rejuvenation. However, it also increases the humidity and moisture content in the atmosphere, which poses problems to our eye health.

Due to increased dust and allergens at this time, our eyes need extra care and prevention. In this guide, we are going to discuss the essential tips to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable during the rainy season.

Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is key to overall health, including eye health. Increased humidity during the rainy season can lead to dryness and irritation in the eyes. So, it’s recommended to drink plenty of water throughout the day and eat hydrating foods to keep your eyes moist and healthy.

Protect against allergens
Rainy season often brings pollen, mould and dust mites, which are the trigger allergens for many eye conditions. If you often suffer from seasonal allergies, it is good to wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from irritants. You can also consult an ophthalmologist for over-the-counter antihistamines or eye drops to alleviate allergy symptoms.

Maintain good hygiene
As the exposure to moisture increases, the risk of infections like pink eye (conjunctivitis) also increases during the monsoon. So, it's good to wash your hands frequently with soap and water and avoid touching your eyes to reduce the risk of infection. In case you wear contact lenses, make sure they are clean. And avoid wearing them in humid environments or while swimming.

Avoid rubbing your eyes
Chances are you may feel itching or irritation in your eyes due to moisture or allergens. In such cases, you should avoid rubbing your eyes. Because rubbing can worsen the irritation and cause more serious issues. Instead, use a cool compress or a clean tissue to soothe your eyes.

Keep your environment clean
The damp environment quickly attracts mould and dust. So, it's recommended to clean up your home properly, especially moisture-prone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. You can also use an air purifier to reduce allergens in the air.

Limit screen time
The gloomy weather might make you want to chill with a TV or mobile phone. However, prolonged screen time can cause digital eye strain. So, follow the 20-20-20 rule - that means every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple practice can reduce your eye fatigue and maintain eye health.

Consult an eye specialist
It’s important to consult an ophthalmologist whenever you feel persistent discomfort, vision changes or redness in your eyes. It is even good to consider regular eye checkups, especially if you have a pre-existing eye condition. This way, you will be able to better care for yourself and ensure your eye health.

Use artificial tears
People often complain of dryness in the rainy season due to humidity. Using preservative-free artificial tears can help relieve discomfort and keep your eyes lubricated.

Be mindful of your diet
Include vitamins A, C, and E in your diet. You can go ahead with foods like carrots, spinach, citrus fruits, and nuts to provide your eyes with the nutrients they need.

Takeaway!
Taking care of your eyes during the rainy season is very important for maintaining good vision and overall well-being. With these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of the monsoon without compromising your eye health. If you are experiencing any problems, it is best to consult our experts at Aakash Healthcare. We have a team of India’s top ophthalmologists who have expertise in treating a range of eye conditions.