Conjunctivitis during Songkran: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention.

During the Songkran festival, many people go out to play with water to cool off, and of course, what should be cautious about is that the water used for playing may be contaminated with germs, dust, or dirt including the use of powder or rubbing the eyes with unclean hands, which can cause conjunctivitis (Conjunctivitis).

 

Conjunctivitis is commonly found during water play festivals because the eyes are sensitive organs prone to irritation and can easily get infected. If not properly cared for, the symptoms may worsen and spread.

 

Common Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

Observe the signs of conjunctivitis after playing water during Songkran, with the following symptoms:

      ๐  Red eyes or more visible blood vessels in the eyes

      ๐  Eye stinging, itching, or irritation

      ๐  Excessive tearing abnormally

      ๐  Discharge from the eyes

      ๐  Slight eyelid swelling

      ๐  Feeling like there is dust or foreign objects in the eye

 

If blurred vision occurs along with these symptoms, you should see an ophthalmologist as there may be inflammation/infection of the cornea as well.

 

What to do? If water gets into the eyes

If water splashes into the eyes or you feel irritation, you should do the following:

      1. Rinse the eyes immediately with clean water to reduce dirt or germs that may be contaminated

      2. Avoid rubbing the eyes because it may cause irritation or increase the risk of infection

      3. Rest your eyes and temporarily stop wearing contact lenses

      4. If symptoms worsen, such as red eyes or discharge, you should consult a specialist for appropriate medication

 

How to prevent conjunctivitis during the festival

You can reduce the risk of conjunctivitis easily by

      ๐  Avoid unclean water or unknown water sources

      ๐  Wear glasses or goggles to reduce the chance of water directly entering the eyes

      ๐  Wash hands thoroughly before touching the eyes

      ๐  Avoid wearing contact lenses while playing with water because it increases the risk of infection

      ๐  Avoid applying powder around the eyes if using powder

 

What symptoms? Should see a doctor

Although many cases of conjunctivitis may improve on their own, there are some signs that require urgent medical attention as follows

      ๐  Severe red eyes or symptoms not improving within 1 – 2 days

      ๐  Severe eye pain

      ๐  Blurred or unclear vision

      ๐  Excessive or yellow-green discharge

      ๐  Light sensitivity or eye pain when exposed to light

      ๐  Severe eyelid swelling

 

An examination by an ophthalmologist will help diagnose whether the cause is irritation, bacterial infection, or viral infection to provide appropriate treatment and prevent complications.

 

Songkran is a festival of fun, but playing safely and protecting the eyes is equally important. If you have red eyes, stinging, or irritation after playing with water, do not ignore the warning signs of conjunctivitis. Proper care and seeing a doctor when symptoms are abnormal will help your eyes recover faster.

 

FAQ: Questions about “Red eyes after playing Songkran”

 

Q: How many days does red eye after Songkran take to heal?

      ๐  If it is just irritation, red eyes usually improve within 1 – 3 days but if symptoms do not improve within 2 – 3 days or if symptoms are severe, such as eye pain, excessive discharge, or blurred vision, you should see a doctor immediately.

 

Q: Can I wear contact lenses while playing water during Songkran?

      ๐  You should not wear contact lenses while playing water during Songkran because water can carry germs into the eyes, which can stick to the lenses and increase the risk of eye infection. It is recommended to remove contact lenses before playing with water and wear protective glasses instead.

 

Q: What is the difference between red eyes caused by irritation and infection?

 

Red eyes from irritation

      ๐  Mild stinging

      ๐  Tearing

      ๐  Usually improves within 1 - 2 days

 

Red eyes from infection

      ๐  Severe redness

      ๐  Discharge

      ๐  Eyelid swelling

      ๐  May have itching or eye pain

 

If symptoms suggest infection, you should see a doctor for appropriate treatment.

 

 

For more information

Eye Clinic

Phyathai Phaholyothin Hospital (Building 1, 13th Floor)

Tel. 02-271-7000 ext. 11396

 

Source : Phyathai Phaholyothin Hospital

Source : arokago news tips for enjoying songkran safely and happily