PNS | Hyderabad
Now that 2023 is here, eye care is hardly likely to be on our list of goals for the new year. Growing instances of progressive illnesses, including diabetic retinopathy (DR) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have raised concerns.
Central vision is impacted by AMD, which is brought on by tissue loss in the macula. Although examples of early onset have been observed due to a number of variables, including heredity, it is more common in the elderly. In India, diabetic retinopathy affects between 17.6% and 28.9% of people with diabetes (DR). Uncontrolled diabetes destroys the blood vessels in the retina, which leads to DR. Additionally, it might result in fluid leakage into the macula.
Diabetic macular edema is what this is (DME). DME can affect one in every three diabetics.Regular check-ups are essential because many diseases do not exhibit distinguishing symptoms in the early stages. It allows for the early identification and prompt treatment of eye problems or the complete avoidance of them.
The Vitreo Retinal Society of India’s president, Dr. N. S. Muralidhar, claims that there is a lack of popular knowledge concerning retinal illnesses. “India is set to become the world’s diabetic capital, as is well known. Among the primary causes of blindness is diabetic retinopathy. Unfortunately, there is little public knowledge about diabetic retinopathy, so most diabetics only have vision problems now. The alterations have progressed to that point. The goal is to regularly and annually have the eyes tested for retinopathy so that we can identify it before it affects vision.
The chance of getting age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) increases with age. Again, fast diagnosis and treatment can stop serious vision loss. After age 50, any visual problem should prompt an eye exam. A common error is to blame a cataract and put off getting your eyes checked. In summary, routine annual eye exams help stop vision loss caused by a number of disorders.”
Here are 5 lifestyle tips to keep your eyesight healthy, as suggested by Dr. Muralidhar:
• No smoking!
Smoking can seriously harm a number of body organs. Smoking has a significant negative impact on your immune system and increases your risk of developing AMD or other preventable eye illnesses. Some of the oxidants in cigarette smoke irritate cells, which in turn trigger the immune system and cause dangerous inflammation.
• Reduce screen time
The blue light from screens on phones and laptops can expose your eyes to a variety of issues, from dry eyes and fatigue to myopia and AMD, among others. Hydrate your eyes often, and limit your screen time.
• Maintain a healthy diet
In order for the body to function at its best, critical nutrients must be obtained through a balanced diet. Make sure you substitute fruits and vegetables for fast food and sweets. Antioxidants are present in foods like fish, eggs, dairy, oranges, kale, and carrots to ensure the greatest eye health.
• Regular eye examinations
Regularly seeing an eye doctor can help manage minor problems like dry eyes and eye redness that interfere with daily activities in addition to serious disorders. Additionally, you’ll maintain awareness of your eye health and be better able to control it.
• 20-20-20 rule
With this quick activity, you can be sure to take a break from staring at screens all day and so lessen the strain on your eyes.
After around 20 minutes of screen time, take a break and look at anything for 20 seconds at a distance of about 20 feet. That’s how easy it is!
Make 2023 the year when you start inculcating these healthy practices to preserve vision and prevent eye diseases or further damage.
-KRS
