Hospitals in Jaunpur are seeing a steady rise in patients complaining of eye trouble as the monsoon season sets in, with most of them showing signs of conjunctivitis, commonly called eye flu. Redness, watering, a stinging sensation and mild swelling around the eyes are the complaints doctors are hearing most often. Many patients initially brush off these signs as minor irritation, but doctors warn that ignoring them for too long can let the infection worsen. Eye specialist Dr. Akanksha Yadav has explained how to recognise the early signs of eye flu, when they turn serious, and the everyday habits that keep the infection from spreading.
The earliest, most common signs to watch for
According to Dr. Akanksha Yadav, redness is usually the very first sign that shows up in eye flu cases. It is quickly followed by constant watering and a stinging or gritty feeling in the eyes, both of which are extremely common. Some patients also notice mild swelling around the eyes. Because these symptoms are often mild and can even ease off on their own within a few days, many people end up ignoring them altogether.
Warning signs that mean the infection is turning serious
Dr. Akanksha Yadav cautioned that some symptoms of eye flu can escalate into something more serious. Sharp pain in the eyes, thick discharge, or blurred vision are signs that should never be dismissed as a routine infection. These symptoms indicate that the infection is progressing, and an eye specialist needs to be consulted without delay.
Symptoms lasting more than 7-8 days need a doctor's opinion
Dr. Akanksha Yadav explained that if the initial symptoms are mild, such as slight stinging, a little watering or faint redness, the condition can be monitored carefully at home for a few days. But if these same symptoms continue for more than 7-8 days, a proper check-up becomes necessary, since an infection that lingers that long can end up causing greater damage to the eyes.
Clean hands remain the single biggest line of defence
Dr. Akanksha Yadav said that the most effective way to prevent eye flu is simply maintaining hand and eye hygiene. Touching or rubbing the eyes repeatedly with dirty hands can spread the infection much faster. Hands should be kept clean at all times, and rubbing the eyes should be avoided whenever there is redness or a burning sensation. A clean cloth should always be used to wipe the eyes.
Never use an infected person's towel or handkerchief
If a family member develops eye flu, extra caution is needed while being around them. Dr. Akanksha Yadav made it clear that a towel, handkerchief or any other item that has come into contact with an infected person's eyes should never be shared, since eye flu is contagious and spreads rapidly from one person to another through exactly these kinds of items.
The doctor's direct advice: stop touching your eyes with dirty hands
Rising humidity during the monsoon increases the risk of infections spreading, which is why extra attention to eye hygiene is essential in this season. Dr. Akanksha Yadav said, "You must not keep touching your eyes with dirty hands again and again. Keep your hands clean, use a clean cloth to wipe your eyes, and do not rub your eyes." She also suggested that if someone at home has red eyes or shows symptoms of eye flu, it is better to keep a little distance from them and avoid sharing their personal belongings.
Sharp pain or blurred vision? Do not self-medicate
Dr. Akanksha Yadav advised that if symptoms such as sharp pain, thick discharge, blurred vision or excessive swelling appear, one should approach an eye specialist directly instead of attempting any self-treatment. Timely examination and the right medical advice can prevent the problem from turning severe.
Three simple habits that keep eye flu away
Dr. Akanksha Yadav recommended three simple habits to prevent eye flu, keep your hands clean at all times, avoid rubbing your eyes repeatedly, and do not share your towel, handkerchief or other personal items with anyone once an infection sets in. These small precautions can go a long way in protecting both yourself and your family from eye flu during the monsoon season.
