Eye Care Archives - Page 9 of 9

May 16, 2017May 25, 2017

How Stress Affects Your Eyes?

Stress negatively impacts your overall wellbeing. Too much stress can cause problems such as depression, heart ailments, high blood pressure, resulting in other serious conditions. But do you know that too much stress can also impact your vision? Yes, stress can affect your vision in many ways. Let’s take a look:

1. Central Serous Retinopathy

Central serous retinopathy (CSR) affects the Macula which is the central area of Retina. In this condition, excessive fluid gets accumulated underneath your Macula, thus causing distorted and blurred vision. Whenever you look at any object, it will appear smaller or distorted. In most of the cases, Central Serous Retinopathy gets better with time and without any treatment and it doesn’t cause any long-term changes in your vision. However, in many people, the condition might recur. If it is a recurring problem, in that case, chances are high that your vision might get permanently affected. This condition is also known as Central Serous Chorioretinopathy. If you are under high stress, your body releases stress hormone into your blood called Cortisol. This helps your body to cope with stress. Although Cortisol is essential for your body but a high level of Cortisol in your bloodstream causes problems. This includes vision related problems (CSR), immune suppression (reduce your body’s ability to fight diseases and infection) and increases the fragility of your blood vessels.

2. Blepharospasm

This condition is also known as eyelid twitching. Usually, Blepharospasm is caused by high level of stress. In this condition, the constant spasms make your eyelid twitch uncontrollably. This might irritate or frustrate you. In most of the cases, other observers won’t be able to see the twitching movement in your eyelids. With time, the twitching gradually lessens and usually doesn’t need any treatment. However, if this continues for longer time period, then the doctor might recommend injecting Botox near your eyelids. This helps in preventing muscle twitching. High stress, lack of sleep along with caffeine consumption may trigger this condition.

3. Nystagmus

This is a vision condition where your eye makes an uncontrolled movement. These movements are repetitive. Such frequent movements often cause reduced vision and a reduced depth perception. Such issues can affect your balance and coordination. In this eye condition, your eye moves either up or down, side to side, or in a circular way. And as a result, your eyes cannot see objects steadily. People suffering from Nystagmus often nod or hold their heads in unusual positions to see clearly.
Fatigue and stress is one of the triggers of nystagmus and often make the condition worse. It is not possible to cure this condition with any treatment but using eyeglasses can improve your vision to some extent. In extreme cases, the eye surgeon may manipulate the muscles that are controlling your eye movement for reducing the symptoms.

Source: https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/nystagmus?sso=y

4. Dry Eyes

When you are stressed, your body increases and thickens the blood flow in your stream in order to protect you from the negative effects of stress. When the blood flow increases, your heart too works harder than usual for circulating the blood. In such case, blood circulation to the extremities in your body, such as your brain, skin and eyes is decreased. As a result, your eyes become dry and irritated. In a study published in Pakistan Journal Of Medical Science in 2015, the researchers studied the relation between psychosomatic conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression and Dry Eye Disease (DED). The study involving 121 people concluded that people with stress, anxiety, and depression are prone to Dry Eye Disease compared to those who do not suffer from those psychosomatic conditions.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4485284/

5. Blurred vision

Stress affects your body and manifests itself in a number of ways. Blurred vision is a secondary symptom of stress and when you experience vision problem, it creates more stress, thus aggravating the situation. When you experience stress, your body reacts to it as if it is facing something dangerous, causing your pupils to dilate. As a result, more light enters the eye so that you can assess the situation in a better way. However, too much light results in poor vision and blurriness. A study published in the journal called Optometry in 2010 found that patients suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) often suffer from blurred vision. PTSD is a condition linked to an unpleasant memory that causes a severe emotional response in you causing stress and other psychological and physical symptoms. For more information, visit http://www.papsociety.org/xanax-alprazolam-1-mg/.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20435270
http://allabouteyes.com/home/stressed-stress-affects-eyes/

6. Functional/Hysterical Vision Loss

Hysterical vision loss is different from malingering. It affects you outside your conscious awareness. Based on the Freudian concept, Hysteria can be defined as a conversion disorder which is caused by an extreme psychological conflict. Such conflicts often manifest itself in form of physical symptoms. Stress is one of the leading causes of such conversion reaction causing trauma and fear. This problem is characterised by poor visual acuity, reduced hyperopic refractive status, stereopsis, and emmetropia. Even using corrective lenses often doesn’t help in improving your distance visual acuity.

Source: https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/when-stress-strains-vision

7. Photophobia

This condition is also known as light sensitivity. Under this, you will experience intolerance of light. From an incandescent light to the normal sunlight, any and all light sources can cause discomfort so that you will feel like squinting or closing your eyes. This condition is accompanied by headaches. People suffering from light sensitivity are bothered by bright light. However, in extreme cases, any source of light will cause irritation in your eyes. This is not a disease but actually a symptom of other conditions such as Corneal Abrasion, any infection or inflammation of eyes, Uveitis, and other Central Nervous System disorders (such as meningitis). This condition can also be caused by detached retina and irritation caused by contact lenses. Stress can further aggravate this condition, making it worse.

Source:

https://www.aao.org/eyenet/article/photophobia-looking-causes-solutions?novemberdecember-2005
http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/lightsensitive.htm

Most of the eye conditions caused by stress are temporary. However, if such symptoms are persistent, then get in touch with an eye specialist immediately.

Here is how we can help you!

At Disha, you can get in touch with our expert eye specialists who can help in treating your eye problems and enjoy a better vision. Get in touch with our experts today. Book an appointment with us at http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment.

May 13, 2017May 25, 2017

25 Data-Backed Eye Care Tips

It is very important to take good care of your eyes. Poor vision makes it difficult for you to carry on your day-to-day activities. It would be difficult for you to read, write, drive, or cook. Fortunately, you can easily avoid a number of eye problems and eye diseases if they are diagnosed early and if you maintain the basic eye care routine.

You can do a lot to ensure that you enjoy a healthy vision throughout your life. Here are a few tips for you:

Lifestyle Tips to Maintain Healthy Eyesight

1. Conduct a dilated eye exam

You might think that your vision is fine and you do not need to go for any eye check-up. But, how to make sure that your eyes are alright? That’s why you need to visit your eye care specialist and undergo a comprehensive dilated eye exam. There are a number of eye diseases such as Diabetic Eye Disease, Glaucoma, and Age-related Macular Degeneration that do not have early warning signs. With a dilated eye exam, your eye specialist can easily detect these diseases when in their early stages. During this exam, the eye specialist will give you eye drops for dilating or widening the pupil. In this way, more light can enter your eye, and the eye specialist can get a good look at the back of the eyes and determine if there are any signs of damage or disease or not. An eye specialist is the only one to determine whether your eyes are healthy or not. Moreover, when it comes to vision problems, many people do not realise that it can be corrected using glasses or contact lenses. For identifying these issues, you need to visit the doctor.

2. Be Aware of the eye health history of you family

Eye conditions are often hereditary; which means you can acquire them from your ancestors. To prevent the onset of any eye disease it essential to know the eye health history of your family. Talk to your family and see if there is anyone who has been diagnosed with an eye disease or condition. This information will help understand whether you are at greater risk of an eye disease or not.

3. Eat well

A diet rich in essential vitamins and nutrients is essential, for maintaining good eyesight. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly green leafy ones is extremely beneficial for your eyes. Fish is also considered good for eyesight as they contain high levels of Omeg-3 fatty acids.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

If you are overweight or obese, you are at greater risk of getting diabetes and other health conditions. This also affects your vision. For instance, diabetes gives you a condition called Diabetic Eye Disease. Talk to a nutritionist today if you are unable to keep a check on your weight.

5. Always wear protective eye gear

If you are into sports or your work involves heavy physical and mechanical activities (for instance if you work in the construction fields) then always ensure that you are wearing protective eyewear. Use protective gears such as goggles, safety glasses, safety shields, and eye guards. These are specially designed to protect your eyes. Most of the manufacturers use polycarbonate for making protective eyewear lenses. This is 10 times stronger than any other plastic material.

6. Quit smoking

Smoking is harmful to your eyes and the rest of your body. Smoking increases the risk of developing conditions such as Cataract, Age-related Macular Degeneration, and optic nerve damage. These conditions can lead to blindness.

7. Protect your eyes from Sun damage

Sunglasses are not just fashion accessories, but they do one of the most important jobs- they protect your eyes from UV damage from the sun. When purchasing one, check whether it blocks 99% to 100% of both UV-A and UV-B rays or not.

8. Let your eyes rest for a while

Spending a long time in front of computer or smartphones can damage your eyes. If you are focusing a lot on the computer screen, sometimes you forget to blink, and your eyes get fatigued. Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look away from your computer screen to a place about 20 feet in front of you. Look for 20 seconds. This helps reduce eyestrain.
9. Clean your hands before putting contact lenses
This helps to avoid the risk of infection. Ensure that you have disinfected the contact lenses and have replaced them appropriately.

Source: https://www.nei.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health-pdfs/tipsforeyehealth.pdf

Food for Eye

How Nutrients boost Vision?

10. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) conducted by the National Eye Institute’s (NEI) in 2001 found that proper intake of nutrients and taking nutritional supplements can reduce the risk of getting advanced Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). In this study, the formulation that was used contained vitamins C and E, Zinc, Beta-Carotene, and copper. The study found that those who took that formulation were 25% less likely to develop advanced AMD.

11. In 2006, the NEI conducted a second study, AREDS2, in order to improve the original AREDS formulation. Researchers used lutein and zeaxanthin instead of beta-carotene this time. The study AREDS2 concluded that the formulation improved the ocular health of the participants. The formulation included Vitamin E (400 IU), Vitamin C (500 mg), zeaxanthin (2 mg), lutein (10 mg.), zinc (80 mg) and copper (2 mg).

12. Since the study, this formulation has been adopted by many optometrists around the world for reducing the risk of AMD and keeping the eye healthy.

13. Zeaxanthin and lutein are primary macular pigments that are mainly found in the Fovea of your eye. The Fovea protects your eyes from harmful rays and filters high-energy blue wavelengths of light, thus protecting and maintaining the healthy cells. If you do not take proper nutrients, then the levels of macular pigment decrease. Taking Lutein and Zeaxanthin supplements increase the levels of macular pigment and protect your eyes against diseases. Zeaxanthin supplements also help in improving visual processing speed. This study was conducted by the University of Georgia Vision Sciences Laboratory. It measured how high levels of dietary zeaxanthin influences the processing speed (the speed at which your eyes and brain communicate for identifying process and for responding to any stimuli). The study found significant improvement in the reaction time of the participant. Apart from that, omega-3 fatty acid GLA is also beneficial for treating dry eye.

Source: http://www.visionmonday.com/CMSDocuments/2014/10/cover_story_VM102014.pdf

What to Eat?

Eating more fruits and vegetables help protect your eyes against disease. It is recommended to eat food rich in certain vitamins and minerals to keep your eyes healthy. These vitamins and minerals are known as antioxidants that keep our cells and tissues healthy.

Source: https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/0911.pdf

Five great foods for your Eyes

14. Carrots

Carrots and other orange-coloured fruits and vegetables are great for your eyes. They contain Beta-carotene which is a type of Vitamin A which protects your Retina and keeps your vision strong.

15. Green Leafy Veggies

From Spinach to Kale, all green leafy veggies are packed with Lutein and Zeaxanthin, the antioxidants that keep your eyes healthy by lowering the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants that are present in the eye. Having green leafy vegetables ensures that your eyes are never short of these antioxidants. These two components also help in reducing the risk of chronic eye diseases such as Cataract and AMD.

Source: http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/diet-and-nutrition/lutein?sso=y

16. Eggs

If you throw away the yolk of the egg, then stop doing that. It’s because the yolk contains lutein and zeaxanthin and zinc. Having eggs thus helps reduce your risk of developing macular degeneration.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11594942

17. Citrus fruit and berries

Citrus fruits (lemon) and berries are powerhouses of vitamin C, an essential component that reduce the risk of developing conditions such as macular degeneration and cataract.

Source:

http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/diet-and-nutrition/vitamin-c?sso=y
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11864861

18. Almonds

Rich in vitamin E, Almonds slow down your risk of developing macular degeneration. Vitamin E, found in nuts, sweet potatoes and fortified cereals protect eye cells from damage by safeguarding them against harmful free radicals. These free radicals break down your healthy eye tissue. And when this happens, your risk of developing Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and cataract increases. More than 25 million people across the globe suffer from AMD. http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/diet-and-nutrition/vitamin-e?sso=y

19. Fatty fish

Fatty fishes such as Salmon, Tuna, Mackerel, and Trout are a rich source of DHA, a fatty acid found in your retina. Low levels of DHA can cause dry eye syndrome.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16210721

Take Care of your Eyes at the workplace

Increased use of computers in the workplace has its hazards. People who work for long hours in front of the computer usually have a high level of physical health complaints that includes ocular discomfort and strain. Visual discomfort if ignored can result in serious eye-related problems.

People who work in front of PCs and laptops for long hours often suffer from a complex of eye related problem. This is known as “computer vision syndrome” or CVS. Eye problems that are caused by working a long time in front of the computer come under CVS. How can you avoid or prevent discomfort caused by CVS?

Here are the ways:

20. Have proper ergonomically designed chairs that are properly adjusted with your computer. This helps in decreasing the visual demands of the work you are doing and.

21. The display of your computer matters for your visual performance. Adjust the screen brightness and contrast to maintain a balance with room lighting. Lowering the brightness of the screen will reduce issues related to image stability, thus lessening the burden on your eyes.

22. Clean the computer screen regularly. Remove dust and dirt that affects the screen visibility.

23. The colour of the characters of your computer screen also affects the ease of visibility. The way your eyes focus on the screen is affected by the colours. Monochrome displays have been found to provide more legible images. This is highly recommended for people who are into word processing or data entry job. Computers with a negative contrast display (dark characters on a light background) or with positive contrast displays (light characters on a dark background) are always better than green or yellow, red, and blue.

24. Adjust your workstation to increase your comfort level. For instance, proper viewing distance and angles can help maintain your posture, eventually improving the way you view the computer screen. Determine the appropriate distance of the computer screen from your eyes. See if you can comfortably read the letters on the screen from that position. Usually, a viewing distance of 20 to 28 inches is usually recommended.

25. The direction of your gaze also affects the focusing ability of your eyes. It’s because when your eyes are placed much higher or below the optimal level of looking at the computer screen, the focusing mechanism of your eyes has to work hard. So, the direction of your gaze is important. Usually, a downward gaze of 15 degree helps in reducing the stress on your eyes. This means that the top of your computer screen should be below the horizontal eye level. And also, it should be tilted back slightly away from you.

Source: http://www.aoa.org/Documents/optometrists/effects-of-computer-use.pdf

Taking care of your eyes is beneficial for your overall health. People who have vision problems have greater risk of injuries due to falls
How can we Help You?

Disha Eye Hospital has a team of expert eye specialists dedicated to promoting healthy vision, thus improving your quality of life. We are committed to our promise of helping you in protecting your vision by providing comprehensive eye care services thus, assisting you in preventing any disability resulting from poor vision or vision loss.

For any queries related to eye health or for booking an appointment with our expert eye specialists, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment.

April 26, 2017

30 Facts About Myopia

You are having difficulty in seeing a distant object clearly; but you can easily read a newspaper up close. Is that the case with you? If yes, then chances are high that you are Myopic or Nearsighted.

According to a report published in 2016 in the journal called Ophthalmology, the number of people affected by nearsightedness is increasing rapidly. And by 2050, about half the population of the world (about 5 million people) is expected to suffer from this condition. Researchers mainly blame the rapid change in lifestyle involving increased usage of smartphones, laptops and decreased outdoor activities for the situation.

Source: http://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420%2816%2900025-7/fulltext

Before we delve into the details of Myopia, let’s first find out how the eye works.

How do Your Eyes work?

When light falls on your eyes, it passes through the Cornea of your eye and into the lens. The lens then focuses it onto the retina at the back of your eye and creates the image which is then transmitted to the brain. This is how you can see the world clearly. However, for producing a clear image, the cornea must have an even curve, and the eye also needs to be at the right length.

In Myopic people, the eye is a bit long from the front to back. This means when you look at any distant object, the light rays won’t focus on your retina, but in front of it. As a result, a blurry image is formed which is transmitted to the brain, making the distant object appear blurry for you.

Source: https://nei.nih.gov/health/errors/myopia

Signs and Symptom of Myopia

1. Myopia or Nearsightedness starts developing during the childhood between ages 6 and 12. The eyeballs continue to grow in teenagers so, if the child or teen is suffering from Myopia, it tends to worsen quickly during this age.

2. The prime symptom of nearsightedness is difficulty in seeing distant objects or a blurred vision when you look at distant images or objects. If you can see closely held objects clearly or read books without struggling to see things compared to distant objects, then you have a myopic vision. You might face problems in clearly seeing images or words on notice boards, TVs, and movie screen. As a result, this can cause poor work performance or drop in performance at school and carrying out other tasks (driving or playing sports).

3. If you see that your child squints or frown while viewing distant objects, complaints of headaches and holds books and other objects close to his or her face, then he or she might be suffering from Myopia.
4.Children who are nearsighted may move closer to TV screens or show lack of interest in sports and other outdoor activities as it requires a clear distance vision.

5. If your child is having difficulty in seeing distant objects clearly, take him to the eye specialist. An early diagnosis and treatment of nearsightedness are important. It’s because, without better visual skills, your child might face trouble doing school work and other activities that require seeing distant things.

Source: http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/tc/nearsightedness-myopia-topic-overview#1

Causes and Risk Factors of Myopia

6. After you focus on closely held objects for longer periods, the focusing muscles in the eyes or the Ciliary muscles lock up. As a result, your eyes become elongated. When your eyes are overly elongated, nearsightedness occurs.

Source: http://www.preventmyopia.org/

7. Myopia can be hereditary. This means, if both parents are Myopic, then chances are high that their children are at a greater risk of developing nearsightedness.

Source: http://www.allaboutvision.com/parents/myopia-causes.htm

8. In a study conducted by Kathryn Rose, researcher of Visual disorders at the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Health Sciences says that deficiency of sunlight can also cause myopia in children. Another study conducted by the University of Western Australia also found that the lack of outdoor time is also a risk factor and contributes to the development of nearsightedness.

Source:
http://edition.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/06/01/myopia.causes/
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-09-06/wa-researchers-investigating-myopia-epidemic-east-asia/7819418

9. People who read a lot are also at the risk of developing nearsightedness.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nearsightedness/basics/risk-factors/con-20027548

10. According to Professor Ian Morgan, a researcher at Australian National University in Canberra, when children spend more time in front of computers or doing activities such as reading books, and watching television or reading books, they become nearsighted.

Source: http://www.preventmyopia.org/

11. According to a study conducted by the researchers at Complutense University in Spain about 31.3% of first-year students were nearsighted. On the other hand, the rate of nearsightedness in final year students was 49%. As per the Research author Dr Rafaela Garrido, students usually spend a long time doing intensive near work with their eyes. People who use computer or microscope are also doing intense work with their eyes. This puts the eye under severe stress, causing nearsightedness.

Source: http://www.preventmyopia.org/

How to Diagnose Myopia?

12. The eye specialist may use several procedures to measure how your eyes focus light and for determining the power of optical lenses that might be needed to correct the problematic vision.

13. The eye specialist will ask you to identify the letters printed on the chart. This test is for measuring your visual acuity, which is usually represented as a fraction such as 20/20. The top number of the fraction represents the standard distance at which your test has been performed (for instance, 20 feet). The bottom number of the fraction is the smallest letter size that you have read. If you have a 20/40 visual acuity, then you will have to get within 20 feet for identifying a letter or letters that a person with normal vision can see clearly at 40 feet. Normal distance for visual acuity is 20/20; however, people might also have 20/15 vision which is of course, better.

14. The eye specialist might also use a phoropter. The eye specialist or an optometrist will place several lenses in front of your eyes. They will measure how your eyes focus light using a Retinoscope. The eye specialist might also use an automated machine for evaluating the focusing power of your eye. The power is then refined according to the response of your eyes for determining the lenses that will help you get the clearest vision.

15. Many eye specialist use eye drops before conducting these tests. However, they may also conduct this test without using any eye drops. They do this for determining how your eyes will respond under normal vision conditions. The eyes drops are used for temporarily keep your eyes from changing focus while testing.

16. The information thus obtained from the test, along with the results of other tests, your optometrist will decide whether you have myopia or not. The optometrist will also determine the power of lens correction that is required for a clear vision.

Source: http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/myopia?sso=y

Treatment of Myopia

The eye specialist may suggest a number of ways for treating myopic vision. They include:

17. Using Eyeglasses: This is the primary choice for correcting myopic vision for a number of people suffering from myopia. Depending on the amount of myopia, the doctor might ask you to wear glasses only for performing certain activities such as driving a car or while watching a movie. In case you are very nearsighted, then you might need to wear glasses all the time.

18. Usually, the doctor will prescribe a single-vision lens to give you clear vision at all distances. However, if you are over 40 years of age or if the patient is a child or an adult whose myopia is due to the stress caused by near-vision work, the eye specialist might suggest a bifocal or a progressive addition lens. These lenses are multifocal and provide different powers throughout the lens to help you get a clear vision at all distances.

19. Using Contact Lenses: Some people with nearsightedness use contact lenses that offer a clearer vision. Compared to an eyeglass, contact lenses offer much wider field. However, since you will be wearing contact lenses directly on the eyes, it’s extremely important to take proper care of the lenses for ensuring your eye health.

20. Laser processes: Your doctor might also suggest Laser processes such as LASIK (Laser in-situ Keratomileusis) or PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) as possible treatment options for persons suffering from nearsightedness. A laser beam is used to reshape your Cornea by removing a small part of your eye tissue. However, the amount of myopia that these processes can correct depends on the amount of corneal tissue that can be safely removed from your eyes.

In LASIK the eye surgeon removes tissue from the inner layers of the Cornea. For doing this, the surgeon lifts a section of the outer corneal surface, folds it back to expose the inner tissue. After that, using a laser the eye surgeon removes a certain amount of corneal tissue that is required for reshaping your eye. After that, the flap is then placed back in position. LASIK eye surgery is performed in all leading hospitals in India. If you want to undergo LASIK eye surgery in Kolkata or if you want to know about LASIK eye surgery cost, then contact us today at http://www.dishaeye.org/contact-us.
In the case of PRK, the doctor uses the laser for removing a thin layer of tissue from the surface of the cornea for changing its shape and refocus light that enters your eye.

21. Ortho-k or CRT: This is yet another option for treating myopia. This process is also known as Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT). This is a nonsurgical procedure where you have to wear a series of specially designed contact lenses that will gradually reshape the curve of your cornea. The lenses placed on the Cornea puts pressure on it, eventually flattening it to the desired level. This changes the way light (entering your eye) is focused. In this process, you have to wear contact lenses only for a limited period and then remove it. If you have moderate myopia, you can temporarily obtain clear vision for your daily activities.

22. Other procedures: If your eyes are highly nearsighted or if your corneas are too thin for laser procedures, then you might need surgical processes for correcting Myopia. An optometrist may implant small lenses in your eyes. These lenses are in accordance to the optical correction desired. This implant is usually placed in front of the natural lens of your eye.

23. Vision therapy (for people having stress-related myopia): Vision therapy is also an option for people who have blurred distance vision due to spasm of the muscles that controls the focus of the eyes. Your eye specialist might suggest various eye exercises for improving the poor focusing ability of your eye thus, regaining clear distance vision.

Source: http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/myopia?sso=y

How to Prevent Nearsightedness?

Nearsightedness can be easily prevented by bringing a few changes in your lifestyle.

24. Get your eye checked regularly. Even if you see well, follow this routine regularly.

25. Certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes can affect your vision. Try to control these conditions by following a healthy lifestyle.

26. Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Always wear sunglasses when outside.

27. Eat healthily. Include plenty of fruits and leafy greens vegetables in your diet. Eat fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids.

28. Quit smoking. This adversely affects your eye health as well.

29. Use right corrective lenses for optimising your vision.

30. Do not put much strain o eyes. Look away from the computer or the book you are reading every few minutes.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nearsightedness/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20027548

How can we help you?

For over a decade, Disha Eye Hospitals is committed to protect and preserve the most precious gift that we have- the gift of vision. We strive to remain the best by providing excellent services and by creating a continuum of care for everyone. Our specialists and experts specialise in preserving and restoring your vision at every stage of care. Schedule an appointment with our specialists today for comprehensive eye care.

March 15, 2017March 20, 2017

23 Quick Facts on Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy

Almost everyone having diabetes is vulnerable to the risk of vision loss known as Diabetic Retinopathy, which is also one of the most common long term complications of diabetes.

Here are some interesting facts about Diabetic Retinopathy.

#Fact 1
Diabetic Retinopathy is so prevalent that around 93 million adults are affected by it on a global scale. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics stand a high risk for the onset of Diabetic Retinopathy.

#Fact 2
As diabetes triggers Diabetic Retinopathy, the underlying cause is high blood sugar levels and high blood pressure. Other risk factors include abnormal serum lipid levels and consumption of tobacco and alcohol.

#Fact 3
A significant percentage of diabetics have uncontrolled cholesterol and hypertension which increase the prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy. Almost all patients suffering from advanced diabetic kidney disease have Diabetic Retinopathy or suffer from it later on.

#Fact 4
According to a recently conducted survey, almost 63% of Indians are not even aware that diabetes has a hazardous effect on the eye apart from other body parts. 92% of diabetics underwent retinal analysis after having their vision affected. Read more info at http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/63-indians-not-aware-that-diabetes-can-spoil-retina-too-survey/articleshow/56096193.cms.

#Fact 5
In India, 52.2% male smokers have been diagnosed of developing Diabetic Retinopathy.

#Fact 6
In a study of 7,000 diabetics in 41 countries, 80% of Diabetic Retinopathy sufferers face difficulties while doing everyday chores like, driving, going to work, reading, etc. The study even holds that Diabetic Retinopathy patients face several “barriers” that prevent them from accessing diagnosis, timely screening and treatment. Read for further info: https://www.statnews.com/2017/02/14/living-longer-living-better-aging/

#Fact 7
Diabetic Retinopathy is not the only vision complication of diabetes as there are other conditions as well including glaucoma, cataract and diabetic macular edema. Irrespective of the type, all of these medical conditions cause severe vision loss and eventually lead to blindness.

#Fact 8
According to a study conducted by the University of Michigan, Telemedicine stands a high chance of serving as a medical tool for screening patients of Diabetic Retinopathy.

#Fact 9
As the early symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy are very subtle, the cases involving patients having early-on diagnostics are very rare (and rare would be an understatement here).

#Fact 10
Although there’s no absolute cure to Diabetic Retinopathy, diagnosis and treatment during the initial stages help maintain vision.

#Fact 11
There is no such rule of thumb that an optometrist (O.D) or ophthalmologist (M.D) has to examine the diabetics, as all eye specialists and physicians can identify Diabetic Retinopathy.

#Fact 12
A patient can opt for either one or several combinations of treatments for curing Diabetic Retinopathy. For example, a patient might need some extra medication after having gone through surgery.

#Fact 13
Diabetic Retinopathy is not the only eye complication triggered by diabetes as patients are likely to develop double vision caused by the paralysis of the eye muscles. Fortunately, this effect is temporary in usual cases.

#Fact 14
Although maintaining a tight blood glucose control reduces the risk of development of Diabetic Retinopathy, it cannot be prevented entirely. Doctors claim that maintaining glucose control delays the jeopardy of vision loss. Read more at http://www.healthcommunities.com/diabetes-complications/diabetic-retinopathy-facts.sht.

#Fact 15
The countries that contribute to almost 75% of global epidemic of diabetes are the ones having low and middle income. Western Pacific and South East Asia are accounted for more than half the number of adults who get affected by diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy eventually.

#Fact 16
Countries including India, Bangladesh, China and Indonesia represent 45% of the global epidemic of diabetes. Eastern Mediterranean holds the highest number of prevalence of diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy which accounts for 14% of the population. Read more at http://www.iapb.org/vision-2020/what-is-avoidable-blindness/diabetic-retinopathy.

#Fact 17
In Africa, almost two-thirds of the people having diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy remain undiagnosed. Studies show that Africa will be affected the most by diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy by 2040. Get more info at http://www.iapb.org/vision-2020/what-is-avoidable-blindness/diabetic-retinopathy#_edn3.

#Fact 18
In total, 1 in 3 people who are currently living with diabetes are reported to have some degree of Diabetic Retinopathy. Likewise, 1 in 10 people stand a high chance of developing vision-threatening form of Diabetic Retinopathy.

#Fact 19
The International Council of Ophthalmology provides educational and supportive role for ophthalmologists to get a better understanding of diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy. Currently, the firm has issued new “Guidelines for Diabetic Eye Care.” Get further information at http://www.iapb.org/news/ico-launches-2017-guidelines-diabetic-eye-care.

#Fact 20
The Centre of Eye Research Australia, Global Health and the University of Melbourne School of Population have collaborated to develop the Online Self Directed Diabetic Retinopathy. Now the course is available in different languages including Spanish, Mandarin, Urdu, Portuguese and French. Check out http://drgrading.iehu.unimelb.edu.au/cera/index.asp.

#Fact 21
As of 2011 report, there were 11,000 Ophthalmologists in India and the number of diabetics undergoing screening per day was 18. China has the maximum number of Ophthalmologists at 28,340 and only 11 diabetic patients were screened per day. http://www.iapb.org/sites/iapb.org/file/ICO%20Diabetic%20Eye%20Care%20Workforce%20Challenges_Prof.%20Hugh%20Taylor_0.pdf.

#Fact 22
The Commonwealth Eye Health Consortium is focused on addressing the epidemic of diabetes across the Commonwealth nations. CEHC consists of 11 leading research facilities which support a network of training campaigns in the UK and Africa for building a strong and a well-informed Diabetic Retinopathy team. Read more at http://cehc.lshtm.ac.uk/dr-links/.

#Fact 23
Major programs have been organised to provide support, treatment and relief from Diabetic Retinopathy. In a program supported by Bayer, IDF (International Diabetes Federation), IAPB (International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness) and IFA (International Federation on Ageing) have collaborated in an attempt to subside the devastating consequences of DR. Read more at http://drbarometer.com/.

March 9, 2017March 20, 2017

Eyecare Guidelines For Holi

Everyone in India looks forward to celebrate the festival of colours, Holi. Every one gears up to celebrate the riot of colors and make it an enchanting experience with the gulal, rang pichkaris, song & dance and a sumptuous meal.

Earlier Holi was played with colors made of plant and flower extracts. But over the years, chemicals and other toxic substances have slowly replaced natural colors. Apart from causing irritation to the eyes, these synthetic colors might also lead to temporary blindness and permanent blindness in certain cases.This colourful festival can only be a better day of fun and frolic when we play it with safety measures.

Some probable damages caused to the eyes during Holi and their solutions are as follows:

1 ) Photo Phobia: If toxic colors get into your eyes, they turn red, burn and swell up sometimes resulting in photo phobia.
Solution: Wash your eyes time and again in water at normal temperature. If that does not solve the problem, visit your nearby eye specialist immediately.

2) Retinal Detachment: If your eyes are hit by balloons full of colour, your eye balls may get severely damaged or it may lead to retinal detachment.
Solution: Don’t try to wash your eyes as it may cause infection. Keep your eyes closed and visit your nearby eye hospital.

3) Corneal Abrasion: The granular particles, which make the colours shine brightly are actually quite toxic and can cause damage to the cornea in the form of a corneal abrasion. A person who gets a corneal abrasion will have severe pain and watering and if not treated by an en expert may develop an ulcer or infection.Solution: Gently rinse your eye with clean water or a sterile saline solution. But do not rub the eye while rinsing it.
Solution: Gently rinse your eye with clean water or a sterile saline solution. But do not rub the eye while rinsing it.

The precautionary measures to be taken during Holi to safeguard your eyes are as follows:

– Cover Your Eyes: The first step is to protect your eyes. If someone smears colour on your face, the first thing you should do is close your eyes.Better is to cover your eyes with your palms.

– Apply a Good Cream: Apply a cold cream around your eyes to avoid getting any colour in your eye. The cold cream acts a shield from the Holi colours.

– Wearing Contact Lenses: First and foremost, avoid wearing contact lenses while playing Holi. If you cannot do without it, then make sure you avoid getting colour into your eye. If colour does get into your eye, discard the lenses and wash your eyes with clean water.

– Shade Your Eyes: The next best eye care tip for Holi is to wear a pair of sunglasses while playing Holi. This will protect your eyes from the colour as well as coloured water.

– Avoid Rubbing: If colour gets into your eyes, the first thing you should do is rinse your eyes. If there is any irritation avoid rubbing the eye at any cost. Rubbing the eye will aggravate the situation.

– Coconut oil protection: Before you play Holi, rub natural coconut oil around your eye. Just like cream, coconut oil will also avoid the colour from entering your eye. This is one of the best eye care tips to follow when playing Holi.

Natural colours made from home-based products are a much better and safer option to play Holi. These can be easily made and offers a safer option as compared to the synthetic colours. Haldi mixed with besan or flour can give a yellow colour and work as a face-mask at the same time. White petals of Palash flower can be used to obtain a saffron colour. Beetroot soaked in water provides a bright magenta colour. Henna powder, gulmohar and hibiscus flowers, etc can also be used to make different colours.

Article written By

Dr. Aditya Pradhan
Dr.Aditya Pradhan MBBS, MS, Fellowship in Cornea
Consultant in the Dept. of Cataract & Cornea