Monkeypox, a rare viral disease similar to smallpox, has been making headlines due to recent outbreaks in various parts of the world. While it primarily affects the skin, the virus can also have serious implications for eye health. Understanding how monkeypox can impact your eyes and knowing the preventive measures can help protect your vision if you are at risk of exposure. What is Monkeypox? Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease is characterized by fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash that progresses from macules to papules, vesicles, and eventually scabs. The rash often begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, including the eyes. Fun Fact: Despite its name, monkeypox doesn’t actually come from monkeys. The virus was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, which led to its name. However, the primary carriers of the virus in the wild are rodents, such as rats and squirrels, not monkeys. How Can Monkeypox Affect the Eyes? Monkeypox can lead to several eye-related complications, the most concerning of which is monkeypox keratitis. This condition occurs when the virus infects the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. Symptoms of monkeypox keratitis include redness, pain, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. If not treated promptly, keratitis can cause scarring of the cornea, leading to permanent vision loss. Other potential eye complications include conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye) and blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids). These conditions can cause discomfort and, in severe cases, may also lead to vision impairment. Prevention: Protecting Your Eyes from Monkeypox Preventing monkeypox infection, including its effects on the eyes, involves several key strategies: Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals: Monkeypox spreads through close contact with an infected person’s skin lesions, body fluids, or respiratory droplets. If you are in an area with known monkeypox cases, avoid close contact with infected individuals and wear protective gear if necessary. Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water, avoiding touching your face (especially your eyes), and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers can reduce the risk of infection. Vaccination: The smallpox vaccine has been shown to be effective against monkeypox. If you are at high risk (e.g., healthcare workers, people in affected areas), getting vaccinated may provide protection. Protect Your Eyes: If you are caring for someone with monkeypox or are in an area with an outbreak, consider wearing protective eyewear to reduce the risk of the virus coming into contact with your eyes. Solutions: What to Do If Your Eyes Are Affected If you suspect that monkeypox has affected your eyes, seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention is crucial to prevent serious complications. Treatment may include: Antiviral Medications: While there is no specific treatment for monkeypox, antiviral drugs like tecovirimat (Tpoxx) may be used under certain conditions to reduce the severity of symptoms. Topical Treatments: In cases of keratitis or conjunctivitis, antiviral eye drops or ointments may be prescribed to control the infection and prevent complications. Supportive Care: Managing symptoms like pain and inflammation through over-the-counter medications or prescribed treatments can help alleviate discomfort. Conclusion Monkeypox is more than just a skin disease; its effects can extend to the eyes, posing a risk to vision. By understanding how monkeypox can affect the eyes and taking preventive measures, you can protect your vision and overall health. If you experience any eye-related symptoms after exposure to monkeypox, seek medical care immediately to ensure the best possible outcome.Concerned about keratitis or other eye conditions? Don’t wait—schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Bangkok Eye Hospital today. Early detection and treatment of keratitis can preserve your vision and keep your eyes healthy. Trust your vision to the experts, call us at +66982255691 or via email at info@bangkokeyehospital.com.

Whether you're an elite athlete or enjoy sports as a weekend hobby, your eyes are one of your most valuable assets. Good vision enhances your performance, while eye injuries can not only sideline you from the game but also affect your daily life. At Bangkok Eye Hospital, we’re dedicated to helping everyone—professional athletes and casual players alike—understand the importance of eye health in sports. This blog provides essential tips to keep your eyes safe and your vision sharp, no matter your level of activity.   Why Eye Health Matters in Sports: Performance Enhancement: Clear and precise vision is key to success in sports, from accurately judging distances to reacting quickly to fast-moving objects. Prevention from Injury: Protecting your eyes can prevent serious injuries that may not only impact your performance but also your overall quality of life. Long-Term Vision Safety: Taking care of your eyes today can prevent vision problems later in life, ensuring you can continue enjoying sports and other activities.   Common Sports-Related Eye Injuries: Blunt Trauma: Sports like basketball, football, and baseball can lead to injuries from impact, which can cause anything from minor bruising to serious conditions like retinal detachment. Serious Injuries: In contact sports like boxing, karate, or taekwondo, direct hits or accidental jabs from opponents can result in severe and dangerous injuries, including cuts, fractures, or even eye injuries that require immediate medical attention. UV Damage: Prolonged exposure to the sun during outdoor sports can lead to harmful effects on the eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts and other conditions. Tips for Keeping Your Eyes Healthy: Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is important to keep your eyes moist and comfortable, reducing the risk of dry eyes during and after sports. Balanced Diet: Eating a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with Omega-3 fatty acids, supports eye health and can improve your visual performance. Avoid Touching Your Eyes: During sports, your hands can pick up dirt and bacteria, which can lead to eye infections if you rub your eyes. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes.   Need Expert Eye Care? We are here for you. Comprehensive Eye Exams: Our specialists and well-trained medical teams offer detailed eye examinations tailored to your specific needs, whether you’re an athlete or enjoy sports recreationally. Personalized Vision Solutions: From prescription sports eyewear to LASIK surgery, we offer a range of treatment services designed to enhance your visual performance and protect your eyes. Innovative Eye Care Technologies: We operate on a cutting-edge smart hospital concept, integrating AI and advanced technologies to ensure the highest effectiveness in our treatment programs. Our commitment to innovation drives us to take patient care to the next level, providing you with the most advanced and personalized eye care available.   Your Eyes Deserve Expert Care — Call Now to Schedule Your Examination! Whatsapp: +66982255691 Email: info@bangkokeyehospital.com