Important news – Conjunctivitis increases in winter: Do not ignore these 6 symptoms, learn prevention methods from an ophthalmologist.

The risk of viral infection increases in winter. Besides, cold weather also brings many problems to our eyes. The problem of conjunctivitis i.e. 'pink eye' is very common in this season.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, every year in America about 1 million people go to the hospital due to eye infections. There are many people who do not go to the hospital even if they have problems.

In conjunctivitis the color of the eyes may appear pink or red. Also the eyes may become dry or there may be a burning sensation in them. Therefore, it is very important to take care of eyes in this season.

So come on, today needed news I will talk about conjunctivitis. You will also learn that-

Expert: Dr. Sudipto Pakrasi, Ophthalmologist, Medanta Hospital, Gurugram

Question- What is conjunctivitis or pink eye?

answer- There is a thin layer over our eyes. This is called conjunctiva. Conjunctiva works to keep the eyes healthy. When there is any kind of infection in it, it is called conjunctivitis.

There are generally three types of conjunctivitis.

Question- What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?

answer- Dr. Sudipto Pakrasi, ophthalmologist of Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, says that our eyes are very delicate and sensitive. If there is anything abnormal in the eyes, its symptoms become visible immediately. Conjunctivitis can have many symptoms. Its common symptoms include watering of eyes, red or pink color of eyes, discharge of white or yellow liquid from the eyes. Apart from this, there may be some other symptoms also. Understand this –

Question- Why does the risk of conjunctivitis increase in winter? What are the reasons for this?

answer- There are many reasons for the increase in conjunctivitis in winter. Let us understand it from these points.

Cold and flu are a big reason

The risk of cold, cough and flu increases in cold. In such a situation, the risk of conjunctivitis increases by touching the eyes, coming in contact with an infected person or using clothes, towels, quilts and blankets of an infected person.

Dry winter air causes irritation in eyes

In winter, the air becomes dry due to low humidity level. In this season, people drink less water, due to which the risk of dry eyes increases. This may cause burning, itching or swelling in the eyes.

Question: Can conjunctivitis spread from one person to another?

answer- According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, bacterial and viral conjunctivitis can easily spread from person to person. However, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.

Question- Why is the risk of conjunctivitis higher in children?

answer- Children's immunity is weak. Therefore they need more care in this season. Generally, the risk of bacterial or viral conjunctivitis is higher in children because children come in contact with more children in school. Also, they do not take care of proper hygiene while playing.

Question- What things should parents take care of to protect children from conjunctivitis?

answer- Parents should make children aware about conjunctivitis. They should be told about its symptoms and methods of prevention. Such as-

Question- What things should be kept in mind to avoid conjunctivitis?

answer- Some precautions need to be taken to avoid conjunctivitis. For example, avoid touching the eyes again and again in winter. Wash hands with anti-bacterial soap for at least 20 seconds before and after eating food. Also, do not share eye liner, your towel, quilt, blanket or pillow with anyone. Apart from this, it is also important to keep some other things in mind. Understand this –

Question- What to do if someone gets infected with conjunctivitis?

answer- As we know conjunctivitis is an infectious disease. It can spread easily from one person to another. Therefore, if you get infected with conjunctivitis, first of all isolate yourself in a room. Apart from this, keep some other things in mind. Such as-

Question: In how many days does conjunctivitis get cured?

answer- Ophthalmologist Dr. Sudipto Pakrasi says that it depends on the type of infection. Viral conjunctivitis usually heals in 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 one go to the doctor in case of conjunctivitis?

answer- Usually this is not a dangerous situation. With proper hygiene and care, it heals on its own within a week. However, if the situation is continuously worsening then do not be careless. This may cause damage to the eyes.