One of the major health issues that come up during monsoon is red eyes due to conjunctivitis and other eye infections. Monsoon, characterized by heavy rainfall and increased humidity, creates an environment conducive to the growth and spread of various infections. Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a common eye infection that becomes more prevalent during the monsoon for several reasons. Red eyes can be a symptom of conjunctivitis as well as other eye infections.
For example, the increased humidity during the monsoon can cause excessive sweating and moisture around the eyes, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and viruses to thrive and cause eye infections. Monsoon weather also creates conditions that favor the proliferation of bacteria and viruses. These pathogens can easily spread through contaminated water, hands, or shared objects, leading to the development of conjunctivitis.
Monsoon can also trigger the release of allergens such as mold spores and pollen, which can irritate the eyes and lead to allergic conjunctivitis, causing redness and discomfort. During the monsoon, people may be less cautious about hand hygiene due to continuous rain and wet conditions. Touching the eyes with unwashed hands can introduce bacteria and viruses, increasing the risk of conjunctivitis and red eyes.
So, what can you do when you have red eyes due to conjunctivitis during monsoon? Contacting a doctor is important to control the spread or worsening of red eyes. But along with that, you can also make some dietary changes to soothe your red eyes. Here are some beneficial foods to soothe red eyes naturally.
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1. Carrots: Carrots are known for their high beta-carotene content, which the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, especially in low-light conditions. It helps keep the cornea (the outer protective layer of the eye) clear and plays a role in preventing night blindness and dry eyes. Consuming carrots regularly can support eye health and reduce eye strain, potentially soothing red eyes caused by eye fatigue.
2. Sweet Potatoes: Like carrots, sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which supports the production of the eye's light-sensitive pigment called rhodopsin. Rhodopsin is vital for vision in low-light conditions. Consuming sweet potatoes can help maintain eye health and reduce the risk of redness due to eye strain or dryness.
3. Spinach: Spinach contains two essential antioxidants for eye health: lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids accumulate in the retina, where they help protect the eyes from harmful high-energy light waves, such as blue light from digital screens. Regular intake of spinach may reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and potentially soothe red eyes caused by exposure to electronic devices.
4. Kale: Kale is another excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin, which help filter harmful light and protect the eyes from oxidative damage. Including kale in your diet can support eye health and reduce redness or discomfort caused by exposure to bright light or screen time.
5. Oranges: Oranges are rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that supports the health of blood vessels in the eyes. Proper blood flow is essential for delivering nutrients and oxygen to the eyes, promoting eye health and reducing the risk of redness caused by eye strain or irritation.
6. Strawberries: Like oranges, strawberries are packed with vitamin C, which helps maintain the health of blood vessels and tissues in the eyes. Regular consumption of strawberries can contribute to overall eye health and potentially soothe red eyes caused by environmental irritants.
7. Salmon: Salmon is a fatty fish that provides a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the eyes, potentially soothing redness or discomfort caused by dry eyes or eye allergies.
8. Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). While ALA is not as potent as DHA and EPA, it still offers anti-inflammatory benefits and can support eye health and potentially reduce eye redness caused by inflammation or eye strain.
9. Almonds: Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress. In the eyes, vitamin E may contribute to reducing cellular damage and support overall eye health. Regular consumption of almonds can potentially help soothe red eyes caused by exposure to environmental pollutants or allergens.
10. Green Tea: Green tea contains catechins, which are potent antioxidants with various health benefits. The antioxidant properties of catechins can help protect the eyes from oxidative damage and support overall eye health. Drinking green tea regularly may reduce the risk of eye conditions and potentially soothe red eyes caused by eye strain or exposure to harmful environmental elements.