Environmental factors such as hot, dry, dusty weather, excessive exposure to screens, and prolonged use of air conditioning contribute significantly to dry eyes. Prolonged screen time, in particular, leads to dry, itchy, and fatigued eyes. Humid weather can exacerbate these symptoms, increasing the likelihood of viral and bacterial conjunctivitis and eyelid infections such as styes and chalazia. The combination of styes and sweating can lead to abscess formation and high levels of infection. Additionally, dacryocystitis, an infection of the tear ducts, is more common in humid conditions.
Dr Priyanka Singh (MBBS, MS, DNB, FAICO), Consultant Eye Surgeon, Neytra Eye Centre, New Delhi, said, “Dry eye, or dry eye disorder (DED), is a multifactorial condition that ranges from mild discomfort to severe vision loss and damage to the ocular surface. Symptoms include burning, itching, redness, gritty sensation, tearing, occasional blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, eye pain, fatigue and headaches. These symptoms make DED one of the leading causes of visits to the ophthalmologist.”
Dr. Priyanka also shared 10 precautions and prevention measures for digital eye strain in humid climates:
1. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential. The goal is to consume at least 3 liters of water a day to maintain general hydration, which promotes tear production and eye health.
2. Maintain eye hygiene: Avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands.
3. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away to reduce eye strain.
4. Keep the appropriate distance in front of the screen: Keep the screen at least an arm's length away from your eyes.
5. Avoid looking at screens in the dark: Do not look at screens with the room lights off to avoid additional strain on your eyes.
6. Blink often: Blinking frequently helps prevent your eyes from drying out.
7. Improve posture and sitting position: Make sure you have a comfortable sitting position and good posture to reduce strain on your eyes and neck.
8. Periodic eye examinations: Schedule regular eye exams to detect and correct any refractive errors.
9. Use artificial lubricating eye drops: Preservative-free artificial lubricating eye drops are usually sufficient for mild dry eyes and can be combined with anti-allergy eye drops if necessary.
10. Avoid self-medication: If you experience persistent symptoms of dry eye or any eye infection, consult an experienced ophthalmologist rather than self-medicating.
The rainy season and digital eye strain can make dry eye symptoms more pronounced. Dry eye is a chronic problem that can significantly interfere with daily life and overall quality of life. Dr. Priyanka Singh emphasizes the importance of seeking professional medical attention if symptoms persist, as timely and appropriate treatment can prevent serious complications and improve the quality of life for people affected by digital eye strain and dry eye disorder.
. This issue is exacerbated in humid weather, where environmental factors can further complicate the condition. ){kind=link}