With the vibrant festival of Deepavali just around the corner, medical professionals in Hyderabad are stepping up to remind everyone that alongside the joy and togetherness, there are significant health risks. Every year, firecrackers and the subsequent increase in pollution lead to numerous skin and eye injuries. To help everyone enjoy a safe and memorable celebration, doctors have released crucial safety guidelines.
Dr. Deepika J. Sanbal, a Consultant Dermatologist at Kamineni Hospitals, points out a recurring trend: a noticeable surge in burn injuries, skin allergies, and other pollution-induced skin conditions during the Deepavali period. She strongly advises caution when handling fireworks, emphasizing the importance of avoiding direct skin contact. Dr. Sanbal recommends wearing protective gloves and having a well-stocked first-aid kit readily available. In the event of a burn, the immediate action should be to thoroughly rinse the affected area with clean, cold water and then apply a specialized burn ointment. Crucially, she warns against common household remedies like toothpaste or oil, as these can actually aggravate the injury and complicate recovery.
Addressing the inevitable increase in air pollution during the festivities, Dr. Sanbal also offered advice for skin protection. She suggests using a mild cleanser and a nourishing moisturizer to shield the skin from environmental stressors. Individuals with pre-existing skin conditions like acne or sensitive skin should exercise particular care. Furthermore, if you anticipate exposure to dense smoke, wearing a protective mask is highly recommended to minimize adverse effects.
Switching focus to eye safety, Dr. Navya Cherukuri, who oversees Emergency Services at LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), provided a clear and concise list of essential “Do’s and Don’ts” if an eye injury occurs.
If an Eye Injury Occurs, DO:
- Gently rinse the eye with clean, flowing water or a sterile saline solution if any debris is visible.
- Keep the injured eye closed to prevent any additional harm.
- Seek immediate professional medical attention from an ophthalmologist or eye care specialist.
Crucially, if an Eye Injury Occurs, DON’T:
- Apply any pressure to the injured eye.
- Use any ointments, creams, or unverified home remedies on or around the eye.
- Attempt to remove foreign objects from the eye yourself.
- Ignore escalating symptoms like persistent pain, blurred or altered vision, or any bleeding. These require urgent professional assessment.