A severe heatwave has hit north India, with temperatures reaching as high as 52 °C in Delhi. As of Thursday, May 31, Nagpur recorded an all-time high of 56°C. Recognising the alarming rate at which temperatures are rising, the Rajasthan High Court suggests that there is a need to declare heatwaves as "national calamities."
While heat stroke and dehydration are some of the common illnesses associated with scorching heat, doctors also warn of eye-related illnesses that may torment people. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Anjal Shah, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Cataract and Refractive Surgeon, Dr Sachdev Maxivision Eye Hospital, Surat, shares symptoms to beware of and lists tips to protect eye health.
Also Read: Heatwave Alert: Expert Explains Heat Stroke And Everything You Should Know
How Heatwave Affects Eye Health
According to Dr Shah, extreme heat or heatwaves can harm your eyes by causing dryness, irritation, and inflammation.
He says, “Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can exacerbate conditions like dry eye syndrome and increase the risk of eye infections.
A study published in the journal Der Ophthalmologe examined how extreme temperatures and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can damage the front part of the eye. Researchers found several eye diseases linked to UV light, including cataracts, growths on the cornea (pterygium), and even skin cancer around the eye.
A very old case-control study conducted in India investigated the relationship between heat-wave-induced dehydration and cataract incidences. The two separate studies involved found a strong link between dehydration episodes, including severe diarrhoea or heatstroke, and an increased risk of cataracts that cause blindness.
This link was consistent across different populations, suggesting dehydration itself might cause cataracts, the researchers noted. However, more research is needed to confirm the same.
Eye-Related Symptoms Associated With Extreme Heat
Highlighting some of the heat-related eye problems, Dr Shah lists a few symptoms to beware of. These include:
- Dry eyes, where the heat causes tears to evaporate quickly, leading to irritation, redness, and a gritty sensation.
- Increased risk of cataracts and macular degeneration due to prolonged exposure to UV rays.
- Heat and UV exposure can also cause photokeratitis, a painful condition akin to sunburn of the eyes, characterised by redness, tearing, and sensitivity to light.
- Exacerbation of existing eye conditions like conjunctivitis.
Tips To Protect Eye Health
Here are some ways to protect your eyes during the ongoing heatwave:
- Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays to shield your eyes from harmful sun exposure.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats to provide extra shade and reduce glare.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your eyes moist and prevent dryness.
- Limit outdoor activities during peak UV radiation times, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Apply lubricating eye drops to combat dryness, especially in hot and windy conditions.
- Use appropriate eyewear during sports or activities that pose a risk of eye injury.
Conclusion
Apart from preventing heat-related illnesses, like heat stroke and exhaustion, you also need to protect your eyes from extreme heat. Exposure to heat can not only lead to eye problems like dry eyes and infection, but it can also contribute to major eye diseases such as cataracts. Therefore, ensure that you avoid going out or stay hydrated throughout the day. Also, apply lubricating eye drops to prevent dryness in the eyes, and do not forget your sunglasses.