Warm eye compress or kajal application: Are these home remedies safe? Ophthalmologist weighs in | Health

The normal treatments that we comply with at house for eye-related points can typically result in additional issues. In an interview with HT Way of life, Dr. Kalpana R, senior advisor, ophthalmology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai mentioned, “In India and on a worldwide scale, many sufferers, particularly the aged or individuals within the rural settings flip to house treatments to deal with frequent eye circumstances resembling itching, redness, styes and dryness. These treatments can provide gentle aid but additionally pose critical well being dangers, together with infections and imaginative and prescient loss.” Additionally learn | Is your eye make-up harming your imaginative and prescient? Ophthalmologist lists 7 eye points to pay attention to; shares prevention suggestions Selfmade kajal comprises lead sulfide.(Unsplash) Know the professionals and cons of frequent house treatments: 1. Heat compress (Clear material soaked in water)Using heat compress is used for treating styes, irritation on the eyelid and generally for dry eyes. This typically helps since it’s protected and relieves the Meibomian gland blockages and reduces irritation. Chilly and heat compresses are innocent until the fabric is clear, and it’s soaked in heat water and never burning sizzling water. Cleansing the within of eyes with faucet water (unsterile) is dangerous. Any preparations instilled into the eyes are dangerous and may result in blindness. 2. Castor/coconut oil:Using home-made castor or coconut oil could assist in curing dry eyes by stabilising the tear movie, however the threat of contamination is larger. And in contrast to prescribed eye drops, these home-made oils do not need a sure dosage for use and might be unregulated. Additionally learn | Going through imaginative and prescient adjustments throughout postpartum? Eye surgeon shares 5 frequent causes Coconut oil could assist in curing dry eyes however there’s threat of contamination.(Shutterstock) 3. Natural decoctionsHomemade, natural eye drops, decoctions and even rinses aren’t sterile, they’ll introduce fungi, micro organism resulting in allergic reactions, corneal ulcers, corneal haze, retinal irritation, and generally even imaginative and prescient loss. This could require hospitalization, extended antibiotics, and even emergency surgical procedure. Consuming colourful meals (fruits, greens, nuts and seeds) for eye well being is innocent. 4. Use of kajal or surma as a type of eye care:Surma is often known as Khol, it’s typically utilized alongside the eyelids and waterline to guard the eyes from exterior impurities and enhance imaginative and prescient. The do-it-yourself kajal comprises lead sulfide often known as Galena which supplies the black pigment, herbs and ash residues, camphor, castor oil, soot, butter fats and antimony compounds. Additionally learn | From display time to diet: 10 expert-approved eye care habits to take care of wholesome imaginative and prescient in 2025 These kajals include important ranges of heavy metals, resembling 30-70% lead, typically within the type of lead sulfide. Persistent use of this will result in poisoning and Neurotoxicity giving eye watering and redness usually, which may escalate to persistent conjunctivitis. Be aware to readers: This text is for informational functions solely and never an alternative to skilled medical recommendation. At all times search the recommendation of your physician with any questions on a medical situation.