Doctors at Al-Shifa Trust(AST) Eye Hospital have warned that persistent heat and high monsoon humidity were contributing to a rise in dry eyes, irritation, redness and blurred vision, urging people to take preventive measures as temperatures remain above normal.
Al-Shifa doctors warn heat, humidity increasing risk of dry eye disease
RAWALPINDI, Jul 10 (APP): Doctors at Al-Shifa Trust(AST) Eye Hospital have warned that persistent heat and high monsoon humidity were contributing to a rise in dry eyes, irritation, redness and blurred vision, urging people to take preventive measures as temperatures remain above normal.
Head of the Orbit and Oculoplastic Department at AST Eye Hospital, Dr Tayyab Afghani, said the combination of intense heat, humidity, dust, pollen, smoke and prolonged exposure to fans or air conditioners could disrupt the eye’s natural tear film, causing irritation and discomfort.
He said people who work outdoors, drive for long hours or spend extended periods in air-conditioned environments were particularly vulnerable.
Dr Afghani said dry eye disease was more than a minor irritation, warning that repeated dryness could cause burning, excessive watering, a gritty sensation and difficulty focusing. Frequent rubbing of the eyes could also damage the eye surface and increase the risk of complications, he added.
He said office workers, students, older adults, contact lens users and people living with diabetes or allergies were more likely to experience symptoms during the current weather conditions.
Dr Afghani urged patients recovering from eye surgery, particularly cataract, glaucoma, corneal or retinal procedures, to use their prescribed eye drops regularly and attend follow-up examinations as advised by their doctors.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, above-normal temperatures are forecast across much of the country from July to September 2026, with prolonged heatwave conditions possible in parts of Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan.
Dr Afghani advised people to stay well hydrated, wear sunglasses, avoid rubbing their eyes and minimise exposure to dust and smoke. He also recommended taking regular breaks from digital screens, blinking more frequently, removing contact lenses if the eyes became dry, and using lubricating eye drops only on the advice of an eye specialist.
He urged people not to ignore persistent redness, eye pain, light sensitivity, discharge or sudden blurred vision, saying such symptoms required prompt medical evaluation to prevent complications.
He added that children, outdoor workers and older adults should be monitored closely during periods of extreme heat and humidity, as they were more susceptible to dehydration and weather-related eye irritation.
