Daily Times

MIRPUR KHAS: Renowned eye specialist Dr. Aqsa Shoib Memon here at Malik Eye Hospital Lalchandabad 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.

She advised infected persons must restrict themselves to their homes for four to five days to control the prevalence of eye infection. Dr Aqsa said viral eye infections are largely self-limiting and patients must not use any eye drop or medication by their own. She, 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 Aqsa shoib Memon clarified that viral eye infection could not spread through direct eye to eye contact, but because of close contact between family members.

She 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,” She 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 Specialsit Dr Aqsa Shoib Memon. 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.