The monsoon season is refreshing and makes us forget the pains of summer. Chilly mornings, soothing rains, and a calming atmosphere are the first things that strike our minds when we think of this season. However, we forget that it also brings forth an unwelcome guest named conjunctivitis. Also known as Pink Eye, this is an extremely common eye infection that spikes during the rainy season. Several factors play into it; however, it is believed that the increase in humidity creates the ideal environment for the spread of infections. Considering this, this blog outlines the reasons behind the increase in conjunctivitis cases during monsoon, and how to stay safe!
Monsoon and Conjunctivitis
Increase in humidity and moisture levels
It is common knowledge that monsoon means a significant rise in humidity levels in the environment. While the continuous rainfall might be soothing to the ears and have a “feel good” vibe, it creates dampness both in and outdoors. This excess moisture affects the skin and the lungs in a negative manner. Additionally, it also creates the best conditions for viruses and bacteria to grow and breed. Highly humid conditions also reduce the skin’s capability to evaporate sweat, disrupting the natural cooling system of the body. All this compromises the layers protecting the eyes, making them vulnerable to conjunctivitis.
Increased exposure to contaminants
If you live in urban areas, overflowing drains are a common sight during the monsoon. The overflowing drains and the waterlogged streets lead to the collection of stagnant water. This is a huge factor in the rise and spread of contaminants in the air. Rainwater carries dirt, pollutants, microbes, and other elements which can easily come in contact with our skin and eyes. This leads to the spread of contagious conditions like conjunctivitis. Under such circumstances, individuals who have a habit of sharing their items are increasing their chances of coming in contact with such a condition. This is especially true for items like towels and handkerchiefs, which are key promoters of bacterial infection.
Decreased Immunity
As a refreshing monsoon is, if you are not careful, it can have a detrimental impact on your immune system. The unstable weather changes and the high humidity levels weaken the natural defence systems of the body, making you prone to infections like conjunctivitis. Apart from this, other contributory factors like poor dietary habits, reduced exposure to vitamin D sources (sunlight), and seasonal allergies weaken the immune system significantly. This weak system makes it harder for the body to cope with bacterial or viral attacks. This, in turn, leads to seasonal conditions like cold, flu, and fever, and in extreme cases, conjunctivitis. Considering this, the immune system can only be strengthened by maintaining proper hygiene and being aware.
Improper Hygiene
Improper hygiene is perhaps the leading factor contributing to the rise in conjunctivitis cases during the monsoon. The increase in humidity and moisture levels promotes the growth of germs on household surfaces and personal care items like towellettes, clothes, and handkerchiefs. In addition, due to laziness, many people avoid washing their hands during the monsoon, which makes it perfect for microbial growth and transfer. The use of unclean towels, excess eye makeup, shared handkerchiefs, and unsanitised surfaces increases the chances of conditions like conjunctivitis and several other eye diseases from occurring. Therefore, the maintenance of good hygiene must be mandatory.
Preventive Measures: Stay Safe and Healthy
Practice proper hygiene
Practising proper hygiene is the best way to stay safe from conditions like conjunctivitis during the monsoon season. Considering this, the foremost safety measure should be to wash your hands frequently, irrespective of whether you are indoors or outdoors. Avoid touching your face or rubbing your eyes. Refrain from sharing items of personal use like pillowcases, handkerchiefs, and towels. Use only clean, dry towels for cleaning your face, and make sure to wash them after. Always try to keep your surroundings clean and dry, as this can help in reducing the growth of germs. Introducing these simple changes can keep you safe in the long run.
Minimise sharing personal items
As noted earlier, a great way to reduce infections during the monsoon season is to minimise the sharing of items of personal use. Conditions like conjunctivitis are contagious, and items like used pillows, towels, and clothes make it easy for germs to transfer from one body to another. Therefore, whenever you give or take a previously used item, you risk an infection. Therefore, it would be best if you cleaned your surroundings and stopped sharing personal items with others. You should also encourage your family members to abide by the same rule. Like this, you will lessen your chances of contracting eye infections during monsoon by a significant level.
Wear eye protection
Wearing your eye protection during the monsoon can do a lot to save you from seasonal infections and conditions like conjunctivitis. If you wear sunglasses outdoors, your eyes will be protected against the contaminated rainwater, pollutants, and the germs that are active during this time. As suggested earlier, rainwater is often the carrier of pollutants that might cause redness, itchiness, or infections in the eye. Therefore, it is always recommended that you wear eye protection outdoors, and sometimes even indoors. Remember, your sunglasses will not only make you fashionable, but they will also protect you against eye infections and diseases.
Minimise the use of eye makeup
You need to minimise wearing eye makeup during the monsoon season. This is one of the simplest ways to reduce the chances of contracting conjunctivitis. The high humidity in the monsoon can cause your makeup to smudge, which can create ideal conditions for bacterial growth. This, in turn, can increase the risk of conjunctivitis. Further, sharing makeup products can also heighten the risk. Still, however, if you feel like you have to wear makeup, make sure to clean your cosmetic products regularly. Always keep your brushes and applicators clean and dry. Try to santise your makeup box if possible.
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