How to protect your eyes during Ganesh Visarjan

Ganesh Visarjan, a time of celebration and devotion, also brings with it potential environmental hazards, especially for the eyes. The immersion of Ganesh idols in water bodies, combined with the use of colors, chemicals, and pollutants in the festivities, can lead to eye irritation, redness, and allergies. Exposure to contaminated water and airborne particles can increase the risk of infections, making it essential to take preventive measures during the festival to keep your eyes healthy and safe.

How allergies affect the eyes
Allergies occur when your body comes into contact with an allergen, triggering the immune system to release histamine—a chemical that causes blood vessels to swell. This reaction often leads to symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, and watery eyes. These symptoms are uncomfortable and can interfere with your daily activities if not managed properly.

Symptoms of Eye Allergies
Common symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include a burning sensation, itching, redness of the eyes, puffy eyelids, and a foreign body sensation. It's crucial to recognize these symptoms early to manage them effectively.

Tips to avoid Eye Allergies

Video
1. Use eye protection: Wearing sunglasses or protective eyewear can help shield your eyes from allergens when outdoors.
2. Keep windows closed: During high pollen seasons or when there is a lot of dust in the air, keep your windows closed to prevent allergens from entering your home.
3. Regular cleaning: Make it a habit to clean curtains, drapes, bedsheets, carpets, and other fabric surfaces regularly to minimize dust accumulation.
4. Avoid dusty areas: Try to stay away from places where dust is prevalent, as it can easily trigger allergic reactions.
5. Pet management: If you are allergic to pets, it's best to keep them away from your sleeping areas and regularly groom them to reduce dander.

Home care tips for managing Eye Allergies
If you suspect you have an eye allergy consult an eye doctor immediately. However, there are several steps you can take at home to alleviate symptoms. Some of the tips are:

Avoid rubbing your eyes: Rubbing can aggravate the symptoms and increase the risk of infection.

Wash your face: After exposure to an allergen, wash your face to remove any particles that may have settled on your skin and near your eyes.

Frequent washing of clothes and bedding: This helps to remove allergens that can cling to fabrics and trigger allergic reactions.

Keep contact lenses clean: Regularly clean and disinfect your contact lenses to prevent allergens from sticking to them.

Use a cool compress: Applying a cool compress can help soothe irritated eyes and reduce swelling.

Artificial tears: Using artificial tear drops can lubricate your eyes and wash out allergens.

Avoid unsupervised use of over-the-counter treatments as they can lead to dry eye or worsen symptoms. Always consult a doctor before starting any new treatment.

Conclusion
Eye allergies can significantly impact your quality of life, especially during peak allergy seasons and events like Ganesh Visarjan. It is therefore important to take preventive measures to help manage these symptoms effectively and maintain healthy eyes. Remember, if you experience persistent discomfort, seeking professional help from an ophthalmologist is essential.

(Author: Dr. Jay Goyal, Eye Surgeon, LASIK and Retina Specialist, and Director at Surya Eye Hospital, Mumbai and Dr. Shachi Joshi, Ophthalmologist in Mumbai)