Patna: More than 150 people have been hospitalised in Patna after suffering eye injuries and irritation while celebrating Holi, as doctors warned about the risks posed by chemical colours and dust particles.
Hospitals across Patna reported a surge in patients complaining of eye infections, irritation and blurred vision following celebrations of Holi. Medical authorities said careless use of coloured powders and chemical dyes contributed to the spike in cases.
The highest number of patients was reported at IGIMS, where 47 people sought treatment in the ophthalmology department. At least 18 others were treated at Rajendra Nagar Eye Hospital.
Several patients also visited emergency and outpatient departments at PMCH, AIIMS Patna and NMCH.
Doctors said fine dust particles from coloured powders can enter the eyes during Holi celebrations, increasing the risk of infection and irritation. Eleven patients were treated at PMCH with injuries to the eyelids and surrounding areas.
In five cases reported at the IGIMS and Rajendra Nagar Eye Hospital, doctors found that the cornea had been directly affected after colour entered the eyes. Medical staff said the patients showed signs of severe infection, while one person was found to have been exposed to a chemical dye resembling an acidic substance.
Dr Ajit Dwivedi, director of Rajendra Nagar Eye Hospital, said hospitals had recorded multiple cases of corneal infections, eye injuries and chemical exposure since the festival.
“Patients are currently being treated with medication, but if the condition worsens, surgery may be required,” he said. Dwivedi added that dust particles can damage not only the cornea but also the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye.
According to doctors, particles entering the eye can cause perforations in the sclera, potentially leading to leakage of internal eye fluid and increasing the risk of vision loss if treatment is delayed.
Medical professionals also reported a rise in skin-related complaints following Holi celebrations. More than two dozen people sought treatment for itching, rashes, burning sensations and skin infections.
Dr Abhishek Kumar Jha, a dermatologist at PMCH, said several patients had visited the outpatient department over the past two days with skin problems caused by Holi colours. Similar cases were reported at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, AIIMS Patna, Nalanda Medical College and Hospital and New Gardiner Road Hospital.
