ISLAMABAD, (MILLAT/APP): Renowned Eye specialist/surgeon Dr.
Sharif Hashmani on Tuesday said viral eye infections on the surge,
have been advised not to resort to self-medication as the
consequences could be complicated.
In an interview with private news channel he said, citizens to avoid
self-medication instead immediately consult ophthalmologists if
they experience any sort of redness, swelling or burning sensation
in their eyes.
He advised infected persons must restrict themselves to
their homes for four to five days to control the prevalence of eye
infection.
Dr said viral eye infections are largely self-limiting and
patients must not use any eye drop or medication by their own.
He, however, made it clear that people inflicted with viral
eye infection if face problem in their vision must immediately
consult with a qualified eye specialist.
Dr Sharif clarified that viral eye infection could not
spread through direct eye to eye contact, but because of close
contact between family members. He dispelled the misconception
that the infection spreads by watching TV and working on computer.
Air pollution in cities is emerging as the major reason
behind the rise in eye allergies and conjunctivitis in people of
all ages, doctors said.
According to doctor, the high levels of pollutants like
nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide in the air make
the tear film of the eyes more acidic.
Talking about the ways to prevent eye allergies he said
one should not rub eyes directly even if fine particulates enter,
rather wash eyes with water. After that they should apply a cool
compress to help reduce inflammation.
“Whenever there is direct contact with the allergen, an
allergic reaction happens in the eye. Mostly this happens when
there is dryness in the air.
Once the infection is detected, chances are that the person
will get it again and again,” he said.
Poor environmental conditions due to heaps of garbage at
every nook and corner, the burning of solid waste and dust from
unplanned development works have increased the frequency of viral
eye infections, allergic reactions and conjunctivitis, he added.
Citizens need to take special care of their eyes in these
circumstances,” said eminent eye surgeon Dr Sharif Hashmani.
Eyes were the most delicate organs in the human body and
needed special care, but due to the prevailing unhygienic
conditions, people were having viral infections and dust allergic
reactions more frequently, he concluded.