winter The risk of viral infection increases. Besides, cold weather also brings many problems to our eyes. The problem of conjunctivitis, i.e. pink eye, is very common this season.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, each year in the United States, approximately one million people are hospitalized due to eye infections. Many people don’t go to the hospital even if they have problems.
In cases of conjunctivitis, eye color may appear pink or red. The eyes may also become dry or feel a burning sensation. It is therefore very important to take care of your eyes during this season.
So, today, in the news of need, we will talk about conjunctivitis. You will also learn that-
Why does the risk of conjunctivitis increase in winter? What precautions should be taken to avoid it?
Expert: Dr Sudipto Pakrasi, Ophthalmologist, Medanta Hospital, Gurugram
Question: What is conjunctivitis or pink eye?
Answer: There is a thin layer on our eyes. This is called the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva works to keep the eyes healthy. When there is an infection, it is called conjunctivitis.
There are generally three types of conjunctivitis.
Viral conjunctivitisBacterial conjunctivitisAllergic conjunctivitis
Question – What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
Answer – Dr. Sudipto Pakrasi, an ophthalmologist at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, says that our eyes are very delicate and sensitive. If there is anything abnormal in the eyes, the symptoms become visible immediately. Conjunctivitis can present with many symptoms. Its common symptoms include watery eyes, red or pink eye color, white or yellow fluid discharge from the eyes. Apart from this, there may be other symptoms as well. Understand this from the graph below.
Question- Why does the risk of conjunctivitis increase in winter? What are the reasons?
Answer – There are many reasons why conjunctivitis increases in winter. Let us understand it from these points.
Colds and flu are one of the main reasons
The risk of colds, coughs and flu increases when you have a cold. In such a situation, the risk of conjunctivitis increases by touching the eyes, coming into contact with an infected person or using the clothes, towels, quilts and blankets of an infected person.
Dry winter air causes eye irritation
In winter, the air becomes dry due to low humidity. During this season, people drink less water, which increases the risk of dry eyes. This may cause burning, itching, or swelling of the eyes.
Question: Can conjunctivitis be passed from one person to another?
Answer – According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, bacterial and viral conjunctivitis can easily spread from one person to another. However, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.
Question: Why is the risk of conjunctivitis higher in children?
Answer- Children’s immunity is low. So they need more care this season. Generally, the risk of bacterial or viral conjunctivitis is higher in children because children come into contact with more children at school. In addition, they do not ensure good hygiene when playing.
Question: What things should parents take care of to protect their children from pink eye?
Answer – Parents should educate their children about conjunctivitis. They must be informed of its symptoms and methods of prevention. Such as-
Explain to children the importance of washing their hands frequently. Tell children never to rub their eyes with their hands. Always use a tissue or handkerchief to clean your eyes. Never share personal items like a tissue, towel or glasses with anyone. If someone’s eyes are red, stay away from them.
Question – What things should be kept in mind to avoid pink eye?
Answer- To avoid conjunctivitis, certain precautions must be taken. For example, avoid touching your eyes again and again in winter. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap for at least 20 seconds before and after eating food. Also, don’t share your eyeliner, towel, comforter, blanket, or pillow with anyone. Apart from this, it is also important to keep other things in mind. Understand this from the graph below.
Question: What to do if someone is infected with conjunctivitis?
Answer – As we know, conjunctivitis is an infectious disease. It can spread easily from one person to another. Therefore, if you are infected with conjunctivitis, isolate yourself in a room first. Apart from that, keep other things in mind. Such as-
Do not come into contact with other family members. Avoid going to school, university or the office. Keep your distance from the television, cell phone or computer. Do not try to rub your eyes if they are itchy. Use eye drops only after consulting the doctor. Do it.
Question: In how many days is conjunctivitis cured?
Answer – Ophthalmologist Dr Sudipto Pakrasi says it depends on the type of infection. Viral conjunctivitis usually heals within 1 to 2 weeks. Bacterial conjunctivitis takes 2 to 5 days to heal. Whereas allergic conjunctivitis lasts as long as the allergy persists in the eye.
Question: When should you see a doctor if you have conjunctivitis?
Answer – In general, this is not a dangerous situation. With proper hygiene and care, it heals on its own within a week. However, if the situation keeps getting worse, don’t be careless. This could cause eye damage.
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