Eye Infections in UAE: Screens and Self-Diagnosis Risks

Spread of Eye Infections in the UAE: Why Are Screens, Climate, and Self-Diagnosis Dangerous?

In the United Arab Emirates, particularly in the city of Dubai, ophthalmologists are increasingly concerned about the surge in conjunctivitis cases. Eye infections are not new, but the current situation is exacerbated by several interlinked factors leading to an epidemic-like spread: air-conditioning in enclosed spaces, constant screen exposure, the dusty environment, and self-medication among the population.

Root of the Problem: Lifestyle and Environment

Dubai's urban lifestyle heavily relies on enclosed, air-conditioned spaces. Offices, shopping malls, schools, sports facilities all create microclimates with low humidity, artificial air movement, and often inadequate ventilation. This weakens the eye's natural defense system. The human eye protects itself from external effects through a tear film on its surface, but if this layer dries out, as in air-conditioned environments, it becomes vulnerable.

Another major factor is screen use. Spending long hours in front of smartphones, laptops, and monitors reduces the frequency of blinking, leaving the eyes even more susceptible to dryness. Consequently, frequent complaints such as burning eyes, blurred vision, fatigue, and itching can precede more serious inflammatory conditions.

Types and Symptoms of Infections

During the current increase, viral conjunctivitis is the most common. This is highly contagious, often affects both eyes, and can easily spread through handshakes, using shared towels or pillows, or even through contact after rubbing the eyes. The allergic form has also become more common, especially among those working in dusty environments, athletes, and pool users. The bacterial variant is also present, though less common, but usually involves thick, yellowish discharge and more severe pain.

Common symptoms include red eyes, tearing, itching, discharge, foreign body sensation, mild swelling, and light sensitivity. The problem begins when the affected person does not take these symptoms seriously or starts treating them incorrectly.

The Dangers of Self-Diagnosis

It is becoming increasingly common for people not to consult a doctor but rather try to identify the problem using mobile applications, search engines, and AI-based advisors. This, however, is dangerous. Symptoms are often deceptive: what initially appears to be simple conjunctivitis could actually be the onset of a corneal ulcer or internal inflammation. Incorrect treatment, such as using the wrong eye drops, can exacerbate the problem.

Many try over-the-counter antibiotic eye drops or remedies obtained from acquaintances. These may not only be ineffective but can spread the infection further, worsening public health conditions. Moreover, certain drops, like those containing steroids, can damage the eyes in the long term: they can increase intraocular pressure, harm the optic nerve, and even cause permanent vision loss.

Particularly At-Risk Groups

Young people, schoolchildren, and athletes are particularly susceptible to infections. They often find themselves in dusty, chlorinated, or humid environments where the risk of infection is already high. Moreover, it is not uncommon for preventive treatments, such as allergy eye drops, to be used without medical supervision in these settings.

Those suffering from allergies are also at risk: many regularly use antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops, which could decrease in effectiveness over time, lead to resistance, or even impair vision.

When to Consult a Doctor?

According to experts, most people delay appropriate diagnosis for too long. If symptoms persist for 24-48 hours or worsen, it is time to seek help. Especially if the following symptoms occur: pain, blurred vision, thick discharge, light sensitivity, or eyelid swelling. These could indicate a more severe condition that may result in permanent vision damage.

Prevention: Simple Yet Often Forgotten

Preventing eye infections is possible by following a few basic rules:

frequent hand washing,

do not rub your eyes, especially with dirty hands,

do not share towels, pillows, makeup, or eye drops with others,

suspend contact lens use during an infection,

use artificial tears if you spend a lot of time in air-conditioned places or in front of screens.

And perhaps most importantly: if you are already sick, do not go into the community. The most common way conjunctivitis spreads is through physical contact. Contrary to urban legends, you cannot catch the infection by 'looking' at it – but a handshake, eye rub, or shared object use is more than enough.

Closing Remarks

Our eyes are a sensitive, yet often underestimated organ that is exposed to environmental impacts on a daily basis. Dubai is particularly challenging in this regard: dry air, high temperatures, constant use of climate control, dust, and digital overload characterize everyday life. Self-medication, carelessness, and neglected symptoms all contribute to the spread of infections. If you genuinely want to maintain the sharpness and health of your vision, the best thing you can do is see a doctor when there is a problem – and do not rely on algorithms instead.