The Indian monsoon brings cool relief but also increased risks of eye infections, especially for the country’s 10 million+ contact lens users. Rainwater may seem clean but often carries bacteria, allergens, and pollutants that can irritate or infect your eyes, particularly when trapped beneath lenses. Rising humidity, dirty hands, and even improper lens care can make things worse. However, you don’t need to ditch your lenses. With expert-recommended hygiene practices and simple swaps like daily disposables or protective eyewear, you can keep your vision safe and clear. This guide offers the precautions every contact lens wearer should take during the rainy season.
Why the monsoon season puts your eyes at risk
Rainwater may look clean, but it can carry dust, allergens, bacteria, and even parasites. When it splashes into your eyes while you’re wearing lenses, it can increase your chances of infections like:
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye): Highly contagious and marked by redness and irritation.
- Keratitis: An infection of the cornea, often caused by bacteria or fungi that thrive in water.
- Corneal ulcers: Serious open sores on the cornea that can lead to vision loss if untreated.
Even seemingly safe sources like tap or bottled water should never be used for rinsing lenses. Water can get trapped under the lens, creating a moist environment where bacteria can multiply rapidly, leading to irritation and infection.
Why your lenses feel uncomfortable during monsoon
Humidity outside combined with dry indoor air conditioning can throw off your eyes’ moisture balance. This sudden change can make lenses feel sticky, blurry, or just plain uncomfortable. Your eyes may also dry out faster, especially if you wear lenses for long hours without breaks.
Monsoon eye health guide: How to wear contact lenses safely during rainy season
These are 7 essential steps to protect your eyes while continuing to wear lenses during monsoon:
Practice strict hand and lens hygiene
Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your lenses. Any moisture on your fingers, even clean-looking water—can carry microbes. Use only a doctor-recommended cleaning solution to disinfect your lenses. Avoid all types of water, including tap, bottled, or filtered, for cleaning.
Avoid going out in the rain with lenses
Rain can splash harmful contaminants into your eyes. If you’re stepping out, consider wearing glasses instead. They act as a physical shield against water, dust, and airborne allergens.
Switch to daily disposables
Daily disposable lenses are a hygienic choice during the monsoon. Since you use a fresh pair each day, there’s no need for cleaning or storing, reducing the risk of infections significantly.
Never rinse lenses with water
It’s worth repeating—water is not sterile. Whether filtered or not, it can carry harmful organisms that don’t belong anywhere near your eyes. Always use lens solution, and remember to replace your lens case every 2 to 3 months to avoid microbial build-up.
Know the warning signs
If you experience symptoms like redness, blurry vision, pain, itching, or excessive watering, remove your lenses immediately. These may be early signs of an eye infection. Prompt medical advice can prevent long-term complications.
Give your eyes a break
Make it a habit to go lens-free at least one day a week. Wearing glasses allows your eyes to rest and rehydrate naturally—especially helpful in a season where humidity and pollution levels can fluctuate unpredictably.
Consider switching to glasses or adding sunglasses
During heavy rains, opt for eyeglasses instead of contact lenses. They offer better protection against raindrops, allergens, and even UV rays, which can still damage your eyes through clouds. If you still prefer lenses, wear sunglasses on top for an extra shield against the elements.You don’t need to stop using contact lenses during monsoon; just be smarter about it. Prioritise hygiene, stay alert to early signs of discomfort, and avoid water contact. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can enjoy clear, healthy vision even in the wettest weather. This monsoon, let protection and prevention guide your eye care routine.Also Read: Colon Cancer vs. Irritable Bowel Syndrome: How to recognise symptom differences early