Grandmother's Kohl: A Threat to Newborn Eyes? Doctors Warn Against Traditional Practice

• Traditional practice of applying kohl to children's eyes is now considered a health threat, with cases of irritation, swelling, and infection reported in Jaunpur.
• Jaunpur pediatrician Dr. Gunjan Patel warns that most market kohl contains harmful chemicals like carbon and lead, dangerous for delicate infant eyes.
• Kohl application can lead to watery eyes, rubbing, redness, itching, swelling, and severe eye infections, potentially causing corneal damage and weakened eyesight.
• Dr. Gunjan advises against applying any kohl, especially for children under one year, and stresses avoiding commercial kohl if application is deemed necessary.
• Prioritizing scientific thinking over tradition, Dr. Gunjan recommends using only a clean cloth and boiled, cooled water for eye cleaning and immediate medical consultation for any irritation.