Heatwave causes 'eye stroke' cases to rise: What it is and how to prevent it

In addition to raising national temperatures, the growing heatwaves are also causing a number of health issues. In the midst of this extreme weather, doctors are warning people about a potentially dangerous condition called "eye stroke."
However, what precisely is an eye stroke, and how can its symptoms be recognized?

• What's an ocular stroke?

A clinically recognized event known as retinal artery occlusion, or eye stroke, happens when one of the arteries that supplies blood to the retina becomes blocked. The delicate membrane that lines the inside surface of the back of the eye, known as the retina, is essential for sending light signals to the brain, which allows for the perception of visuals. Disruption of this vital blood supply, however, can result in sudden blindness and possibly irreversible damage.

The Cleveland Clinic states that there are numerous risk factors that can lead to the onset of an eye stroke. These include conditions that prevent blood vessels from functioning at their best, such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and others.

• Heat waves and strokes to the eyes

The human body has to work very hard during the warmer months to keep its internal temperature steady. This physiological struggle can cause blood thickening, dehydration, and high blood pressure, all of which can obstruct blood flow to the eyes and increase the risk of stroke.

One particularly significant risk factor for strokes to the eyes is dehydration. The body becomes more susceptible to problems, such as the development of dry eye syndrome, when it loses more water than it takes in. This disorder causes pain, redness, and a grainy feeling in the eyes when the tears either don't come out or don't make as much of an effort.

• Understanding the signs of an ocular stroke

The health information website Healthline states that an eye stroke's symptoms can appear suddenly or gradually over the course of hours or days. A clear sign that this could be a retinal stroke is if the symptoms are limited to one eye. The following symptoms are also ones to watch out for:

√ Floaters: These visual anomalies appear as tiny, gray spots that move across a person's field of vision.

√ Blurred vision: A person's ability to see clearly may gradually deteriorate in one area of their visual field or throughout their whole field of vision.

√ Loss of vision: People may gradually or suddenly lose their vision, with severity ranging from mild to severe.

√ Pain or pressure: Although most eye strokes are painless, any pressure or slight discomfort in the eyes should be addressed.

√ Bleeding: Possible vascular problems may be indicated by the retina's reddish color or sporadic blood spots.

• Additional heatwave-related eye issues

Heatwaves can be extremely dangerous to our eyesight in addition to being physically harmful to us. Rising temperatures can aggravate a number of eye conditions, according to a Moneycontrol report that quotes Dr. Navneet Bohra, an ophthalmologist at the Ananta Institute of Medical Sciences in Rajsamand.
The increased risk of having an eye stroke during heatwaves is one of the main worries. But the effects go beyond this serious illness. Other eye issues that could occur include the following:

√ Increasing eye allergies: Heatwaves and high pollen counts frequently occur together, causing allergic reactions that result in eye redness, itching, and watering.

√ Stye: Heat exposure can cause styes to develop, which are uncomfortable red lumps that usually form under the eyelid or at the base of the lashes.

√ Photokeratitis: During heatwaves, excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause this condition, which is similar to an eye sunburn. Pain, redness, blurriness, and transient loss of vision are among the symptoms. Macular degeneration and cataracts can also arise as a result of prolonged exposure to UV radiation.

Increased likelihood of eye infection: Sweating during hot spells raises the risk of getting an eye infection. Bacteria and pathogens can enter the eyes through sweat, particularly if the eyes are frequently rubbed. This may lead to infections and ailments like conjunctivitis, or pink eye.

• How can an ocular stroke be avoided?

Proactive steps are necessary to protect your eyes from the risk of an eye stroke. To guarantee optimum eye health, follow these important steps:

√ Hydration: Make sure you drink enough water each day to keep your eyes hydrated. To further reduce any possible irritation, think about applying lubricant eye drops that are available over-the-counter.

√ Sunglasses: More than just stylish items, sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Choose sunglasses that completely block UVA and UVB radiation to prevent damage from extended sun exposure.

√ Caution Regarding Contact Lenses: Dr. Ramya Sampath, Regional Head of Clinical Services at Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital in Chennai, cautions contact lens wearers to follow the suggested usage durations, which are normally 6 to 12 hours per day, particularly during hot weather. The chance of developing a corneal infection can increase with prolonged wear and incorrect contact lens handling.

√ Air conditioning awareness: Long-term use of air conditioners can cause the air to dry out and your eyes to become dry. To maintain ocular hydration, reduce direct exposure to vents, use a humidifier to replenish moisture levels, and take regular breaks from air-conditioned environments.

√ Optimal eye hygiene: To reduce the risk of irritation and potential infections like styes or conjunctivitis, make frequent handwashing a priority, especially when participating in outdoor activities during heatwaves. Wearing a hat or a cap with a brim offers additional protection from environmental elements.

√ Dietary monitoring: Pay attention to your food choices as they have a big impact on eye health. Include foods high in zinc, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet to maintain good eye health and reduce the risk of age-related vision impairments. Stress the importance of eating fruits, nuts, fish, and leafy greens to protect your eyes from the stress that heatwaves cause.