Heatwaves don’t just make us uncomfortable. They can also be harsh on our eyes. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and bright sunlight can cause problems such as photokeratitis and dry eye disease, like eye sunburn. Therefore, it becomes important to know how to protect your eyes during heat waves.We spoke to our experts Dr. Mandeep Singh Basu, Director, Jagat Pharma, Delhi; Who listed eye care tips to follow this summer.
When it comes to eye health, there is evidence to suggest that heat affects the inflammatory response of corneal cells, according to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. This phenomenon is also associated with allergies and increased susceptibility to various infectious viral diseases such as herpes, viral conjunctivitis, and bacterial and fungal infections.
Tips to protect your eyes during heat waves
Ayurveda suggests ways to keep your eyes safe during hot weather.
eye drops
“Ayurvedic eye drops made from cooling herbs such as rose water, triphala, and pure cow ghee can soothe and moisturize the eyes. They are effective against dry eyes and other heat-related discomforts. Yes,” Dr. Bass said.
aloe
Aloe vera gel is great for cooling and moisturizing your eyes. Apply around the eyes to reduce inflammation and speed healing. In 2012, a study examining the effects of filtered aloe vera extract on human corneal cells found indications that aloe vera may have properties that can reduce eye inflammation and dryness.
Also read: How summer heat affects eye health, experts list do’s and don’ts
stay hydrated
According to a review in Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, dehydration can potentially contribute to the development of dry eye syndrome, cataracts, changes in vision, and diseases that affect retinal blood vessels. Therefore, you need to drink plenty of water to keep your eyes moist. Dehydration can worsen dry eye, so make sure you drink plenty of water, especially when it’s hot.
ayurvedic eye wash
Dr. Basu further adds, “Washing your eyes with triphala powder or rose water can refresh your eyes and remove irritants. Triphala made from amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki has a calming effect. .”
Protective eyewear
A 2019 study found that exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and visible blue light can lead to a variety of eye conditions, including cataracts, eyelid malignancies, uveal melanoma, photokeratitis, splash keratopathy, and macular degeneration. may cause. “So when you’re outdoors, be sure to wear sunglasses with UV protection. Look for ones that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to avoid eye damage from UV exposure.” added Dr. Bass.
Also read: Diabetes and eye damage: Experts list Ayurvedic tips to manage eye damage caused by high blood sugar
cooling diet
You should maintain a balanced diet and include cooling foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Foods like watermelon, cucumber, coconut water, and mint can help reduce heat and inflammation in your body.
Limit exposure to sunlight
Try to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade whenever possible and limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
ayurvedic herbs
Dr. Basu says, “Some Ayurvedic herbs can also help improve eye health during heat waves. Hibiscus tea can slightly lower blood pressure, which may be elevated in the heat. Effective: Shatavari is a cooling and moisturizing herb for dry, irritated eyes, and anantmur also helps relieve eye irritation caused by heat.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any eye issues to get the necessary treatment.]
