Rainy Days: How to Stay Healthy and Infection-Free During the Monsoon Season

The rainy season is a much-awaited relief from the scorching heat of summer. However, it also brings with it the risk of infections due to the high humidity that encourages the growth of bacteria and viruses. In this blog, we will explore essential tips to avoid infections and keep yourself and your eyes healthy during the rainy days.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Eye Infections During Monsoon
3. High-Risk Cases
4. Preventing Eye Infections
   • 4.1 Hand and Face Washing
   • 4.2 Avoiding Eye Rubbing
   • 4.3 Contact Lens Care
   • 4.4 Use of Antibiotic Eye Drops
   • 4.5 Importance of Hygiene
5. Tips to Avoid Infections During Rainy Days
   • 5.1 Keep Yourself Clean and Dry
   • 5.2 Drink Clean Water
   • 5.3 Eat Healthy and Hygienic Food
   • 5.4 Boost Your Immunity
   • 5.5 Avoid Crowded Places
6. Five Eye Care Tips for Rainy Days
   • 6.1 Protect Your Eyes from Rainwater
   • 6.2 Avoid Sharing Personal Hygiene Items
   • 6.3 Maintain a Healthy Diet
   • 6.4 Be Cautious with Contact Lenses
   • 6.5 Do Not Self-Medicate
7. Conclusion
8. FAQs

Introduction

The monsoon season is a time of joy and relief for many, but it also brings health challenges, particularly in terms of infections. The high humidity and waterlogged streets create an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria and viruses. Among the common infections during this period, eye infections are a major concern. With over 20 million cases reported annually in India alone, it is crucial to take necessary precautions to safeguard our eyes and overall health.

Eye Infections During Monsoon

Eye infections are among the most prevalent health issues during the monsoon season. Dr Sandeep Buttan, a Technical Lead at Eye Health and Health System Strengthening at Sightsavers India, emphasizes the significance of preventive measures during this time. Symptoms of eye infections may include redness, discomfort, lid infections, and conjunctivitis. Seeking immediate medical attention from an eye specialist is essential if any of these symptoms are experienced.

High-Risk Cases

Certain individuals are at higher risk of contracting eye infections during the monsoon season. These include people with existing eye conditions such as diabetes, allergies, or dry eyes, contact lens wearers, and those who have recently undergone eye surgery. Extra care and precautions should be taken by these individuals to protect their eyes.

Preventing Eye Infections

To minimize the risk of eye infections, adopting good hygiene practices is crucial. Regular hand washing and face washing improve overall cleanliness and reduce the chances of infections. Avoiding eye rubbing, especially for children, is essential to prevent the transfer of germs to the eyes. Contact lens users should avoid exposing their lenses to rainwater and adhere to proper lens care practices to lower the risk of infection. It’s important to use antibiotic eye drops only under the guidance of a specialist. Studies by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Journal of Hospital Infection support the significance of these practices.

Tips to Avoid Infections During Rainy Days

Beyond eye infections, the rainy season also brings a higher risk of general infections. Here are five tips recommended by Dr Pankaj Chaudhary, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Max Hospital in Vaishali, to stay healthy during the rainy days:

1. Keep Yourself Clean and Dry

Regular bathing and thorough drying are effective ways to prevent infections. Avoid wearing wet clothes or shoes for prolonged periods, as it creates a breeding ground for bacteria.

2. Drink Clean Water

Waterborne diseases are common during the monsoon season. Drink only clean and filtered water. Boil water if its quality is uncertain.

3. Eat Healthy and Hygienic Food

The rainy season increases the risk of food contamination. Avoid street food and opt for hygienic eateries. Fruits and vegetables should be washed  properly before it is  consumed.

 

4. Boost Your Immunity

A strong immune system helps fight off infections. A balanced diet has to be consumed , along with regular exercise , and   a good sleep. Vitamin C supplements can also bolster your immunity.

5. Avoid Crowded Places

Crowded places are breeding grounds for infections. If possible, avoid such areas during the rainy season. If going is required , then mask should be used  along with  social distancing.

Five Eye Care Tips for Rainy Days

Bringing his expertise, Dr Shantanu Mukherjee, Senior Consultant at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, provides five essential tips to keep your eyes healthy during the rainy season:

1. Protect Your Eyes from Rainwater

While playing or dancing in the rain may be enjoyable, avoid letting rainwater directly enter your eyes. Rainwater collects germs and pollutants, which can be harmful to the eyes. Protect them by not exposing them directly to rain.

2. Avoid Sharing Personal Hygiene Items

Eye infections are contagious, so never share your towels or napkins with others. The transmission of germs through personal hygiene items can spread infections.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

During the rainy season, consume green leafy vegetables, corn, strawberries, yogurt, and eggs. Avoid oily snacks and aerated drinks to minimize the risk of eye problems.

4. Be Cautious with Contact Lenses

Rainy days can cause extreme dryness in the eyes for contact lens wearers, leading to redness and irritation. It is better to avoid wearing contact lenses during this season. Keep your glasses clean and dry.

5. Do Not Self-Medicate

In case of any eye-related symptoms during the monsoon season, never self-medicate. Always seek an appointment with your eye doctor to get the proper diagnosis and treatment.