12 May,2026 12:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: File pic
With summer temperatures rising in Mumbai, doctors are observing an increase in eye-related problems such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), eye irritation, and dryness across all age groups. From school-going children to working adults and senior citizens, many people are reporting symptoms like redness, itching, swelling, and watery eyes.
Eye problems are quite common during the summer and can often disturb daily comfort and peace of mind. However, experts point out that hot weather, increased dust exposure, pollution, and sudden climate fluctuations are contributing to the rise in these eye conditions.
Dr Nusrat Bukhari, who is an ophthalmologist at Apollo Spectra in Tardeo, explains, "Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the thin transparent layer that covers the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. It can occur because of weather changes, rising temperatures, increased sweating, and exposure to dust and polluted air, which can trigger irritation, viral or bacterial infections, and allergies. Children who play outdoors, individuals working in dusty environments, and people who spend long hours on digital screens are particularly vulnerable to these problems. Climate change and unpredictable seasonal patterns are also contributing to a rise in eye-related complaints."
Dr Bukhari and Dr Sunil Moreker, who is also an opthalmologist with Lilavati Hospital in Bandra, have both noticed an increasing number of cases of conjunctivitis and dry eyes across age groups. Dr Bukhari observes, "Approximately 3-4 children were seen with complaints of eye dryness and irritation, while 6-7 adults and senior citizens reported symptoms of conjunctivitis, including redness, swelling, watering, and eye pain. This trend highlights how changing weather, heat, and increased exposure to dust and infections are affecting people from young children aged 9 to people above 50 years of age. If left untreated, conjunctivitis and other eye infections can lead to complications such as persistent irritation, blurred vision, spreading of infection to the other eye, and prolonged discomfort."
Dr Morekar confirms that the cases are increasing among people because of changing weather, extreme heat, dust, pollution, and even increased screen time. "Climate change is also affecting eye health and causing more eye irritation and infections during summer. The common symptoms seen in patients are redness, itching, watering, burning sensation, and tired eyes. Many people ignore these early signs, which is not at all advisable," he explains. In some cases, the eyes may feel sticky, especially after waking up, adds Dr Bukhari.
She also highlights that one of the most dreadful of all the types of conjunctivitis is Viral Keratoconjunctivitis. Dr Bukhari explains, "It has the most longest of recovery phase where patient suffers from severe swelling in all the anterior layers of the eye with formation of thin adhering membrane, painful on removal and causes severe damage to the cornea(the black visible part of the eye) by formation of abrations, defects and even keratitis (swelling of this part)."
Management of conjunctivitis depends on the cause and severity of the eye condition. "For dry eyes, doctors often recommend lubricating or artificial tear drops that help keep the eyes moist and reduce irritation or burning sensation. In cases of bacterial conjunctivitis, antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be prescribed to control the infection and prevent it from spreading. Maintaining proper eye hygiene, avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes, washing hands frequently, and not sharing towels or eye cosmetics are also important steps to prevent further irritation and transmission," said Dr Bukhari.
Dr Morekar concludes, "Staying hydrated, keeping eyes clean, avoiding putting eye drops on your own, reducing screen time, and consulting the doctor on time can help protect the eyes. So, make sure to take care of your eyes, this summer."
People are advised to avoid touching or rubbing their eyes frequently, wash their hands regularly, use protective sunglasses outdoors, and maintain proper eye hygiene to reduce the risk of infections during the summer months.
