Wondering how to celebrate a safe Diwali? This is what doctors say

Here is how to celebrate a safe and secure Diwali with our loved ones.

Protect the eyes

Dr Archana S, Regional Head- Clinical Services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital highlights firecracker-induced injuries during the festival.

“A large number of ocular (related to the eyes or vision) injuries are reported every year, caused mainly by firecrackers. In fact, the eyes are the second most commonly affected area after the hands and fingers. Some of the common injuries are caused by sparklers and ‘bombs’ along with ‘chakra’ crackers (rotating fireballs) that also may cause injuries to the eyes,” she told South First.

Injuries caused be chemicals used in the gunpowder are also common. “Exposure to constant smoke can cause irritation and watering of the eyes. Fumes from firecrackers may also cause laryngitis and other throat infections,” she added.

Explosion of crackers are often unpredictable. They could cause injuries even if the person is careful or is under supervision. Keep a bucket of water and sand readily available to tackle accidental fire.

People who use contact lenses may experience irritation if exposed to direct heat for a prolonged period. “So people wearing contact lenses should be extra cautious while handling crackers,” Dr Archana said.

It is advisable to remove the contact lenses before bursting firecrackers. Use a pair of spare glasses instead. They will protect the eyes better.

Dos and don’ts

• Do not rub your eyes
• Wash your eyes and face properly
• In case of any irritation — or foreign body in the eye — hold the eyelids open and flush the eyes continuously with water
• If a particle is large or stuck in the eye, do not attempt to remove it
• Keep your eyes closed and go to the eye doctor
• If any chemical has entered the eyes, immediately wash the eyes and under the eyelids with water for 30 minutes Consult an eye doctor immediately

Protect your skin

“With the changing season, there is a sudden change in the temperature and humidity, which affects the skin. It is important to moisturise and hydrate your skin using either a water-based or gel-based moisturiser, dermatologist Dr Abhiram Rayapati told South First,

Diwali is also the festival of sweets and high-calorie food. Rayapati warned against overconsumption of sweets or oily food. They could lead to acne breakouts, dull skin, weight gain and skin allergies.

Try not to burst firecrackers this Diwali, but if you have children who like firecrackers protect their skin and hair from crackers. Most crackers have high smoke emissions due to their high magnesium and cordite content, Dr Rayapati said.

“These pollutants settle on the skin and harm and cause irritant dermatitis due to chemical burns, and allergies,” the doctor added.

Maintain an arm’s length distance while lighting firecrackers, and at least five metres while watching fireworks to protect your skin from harmful chemicals. Have a first-aid kit handy in case of a chemical or physical burn.

Dr Rayapati recommended wearing cotton fabrics rather than synthetic fabrics covering the whole body, and ties and scarfs covering the face. “Make sure you wear a mask so that the fireworks’ fumes do not enter your nose and cause irritation. Wear slippers which will protect you from accidentally stepping on burnt crackers.”

The elderly should avoid outdoors during Diwali because of the increase in pollution which could affect their health.

Additionally, sanitiser bottles away from kids, and avoid applying sanitisers before lighting diyas or candles or burning firecrackers. Sanitisers contain inflammable alcohol.