Heavy Winds and Facial Paralysis

'Secure eyes against heavy winds'

Jul 15, 2014, 10.03AM IST TNN[ R Gokul ]



TRICHY: The recent spate of heavy winds blowing across the district has prompted doctors to issue a warning to the residents to take precautionary measures to prevent any eye-related disease arising out of it. The heavy winds, which is a common occurrence during this time of the year forces the dust particles to fly across and can create not only eye-related issues but also other health problems.

In fact, the ophthalmic department at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) has been witnessing three to four cases of corneal infection every day since the time the winds began. "The dust particles in the wind affect the cornea of the eyes. The heavy winds for the past few days have caused corneal infection in many people both from the city and rural parts of the district. Proper treatment with ophthalmologists is the remedy to protect the eyes from infection," Dr P Parthiban, head, department of ophthalmology, MGMGH.

Doctors say that even after several technological advancements in ophthalmology, many people still rely on some risky native treatments. "It is not advisable to use some metal wire or tongue to remove the dust from the eyes. Some people still try the method though it will cause 'fungal corneal infection'. Hence, they should avoid taking risks with the eyes. But it is recommended to wash the eyes with running water which will remove the dust," said Dr Parthiban.

MGMGH is equipped with the 'slit lamp' machine which is used to remove dust from the eyes. The patients can get rid of the irritation caused by the dust and walk free from it.

Besides eye diseases, the winds causes other health problems, say doctors. "The winds can cause dryness on body, cold on people with asthma, bleeding from nose and throat pain. Heart patients should avoid walking against the heavy wind as it will affect their heart further. Long-distance travel by vehicles during this time may cause facial paralysis. Further, people should avoid smoking in public," said Dr M A Aleem, professor of neurology, Trichy.

Meanwhile, the health wing of the city corporation is educating students in government and government-aided schools on how to keep their eyes safe. "During the weekly school health programme on all Thursday's, we conduct eye check up and advise the students to protect their eyes," said Dr S Mariappan, city health officer, Trichy Corporation.

Officials say that the winds are expected to continue for the next few weeks.