Few Healthy Eye Tips

Are you tired of the constant eye strain and eye discomfort your eyes endure in today’s screen-filled world? Let’s give your eye health what it truly deserves.

Let’s explore easy-to-implement tips and tricks that will not only soothe your eyes but also enhance your overall eye protection and eye health.

source: pixabay

The Basics of Eye Remedy

What’s an eye health remedy? It’s pretty straightforward—it’s all about taking care of your eyes to prevent or treat eye diseases or any issues that might pop up. It is similar to taking your car for regular check-ups to keep it running smoothly. The same deal with your eyes.

1. Awareness

First things first, it’s all about awareness. Keep an eye out for any changes in your vision. Maybe things are getting a bit blurry when you’re reading, or you’re squinting more than usual to see street warning signs. These could be clues that your eye health needs some attention.

2. Check-Ups

Next up, regular check-ups. Just like you visit your doctor for an annual health check, your eyes deserve the same kind of routine love and care. A visit to an eye specialist can catch any problems early on, which is always a good thing.

3. Protection

And let’s not forget about protection. Sunglasses aren’t just cool accessories; they’re also vital for protecting your eyes from those harsh UV rays. And if you’re glued to screens all day, consider blue light-blocking safety glasses to give your eyes a rest.

Most people keep tabs on their vision. So, it is vital that you get regular optic nerve eye exams and protect your eyes from harm. These are simple steps, but they go a long way in keeping your vision sharp and your eyes healthy.

The Connection Between Eyes and Mental Health

Now, imagine this: you wake up one morning, and everything’s a blur. You blink and rub your eyes constantly because you are thinking about blindness. Your once-clear world is now fuzzy around the edges. That’s bound to give you anxiety and cause panic. This is just a tiny glimpse into how closely our eyesight is intertwined with our mental well-being.

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The Emotional Effect Of Eye Problems

Think about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with eye issues. Vision problems can be more than just a physical nuisance; they often carry a heavy emotional load. When you’re squinting just to read texts or struggling to see faces clearly, it can really put a damper on your mood.

It’s not just about missing the fine print; it’s about missing out on those precious moments of life. This can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and, in some cases, even depression.

Effects On Interactions

Our eyes don’t just help us see; they also play a crucial role in how we perceive and interact with the world. Healthy vision contributes to our social well-being. It helps us pick up on those subtle non-verbal cues during conversations:

  • A wink
  • A nod
  • A rolling eye

These cues are crucial for building and maintaining relationships. When our vision is compromised, navigating social settings becomes a challenge, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Mental Wellness On Eye Health

Mental health can also have a direct impact on our vision. Ever been so stressed that your vision became blurry? That’s not just your imagination. High levels of stress and anxiety can lead to physical symptoms, including vision disturbances. It’s all part of our body’s response to stress. Prolonged stress can even exacerbate existing eye conditions, like glaucoma, age related macular degeneration, cataracts, sight loss, or dry eye syndrome.

In some instances, eye diseases are not far from family medical history. Other risk factors may include high blood sugar levels (diabetes), high blood pressure, etc. Some professionals or medical experts will advise you to wear contacts or wear sunglasses or protective eyewear.

source: pixabay

Types Of Eye Remedies

You know, our eyes are like the high-tech cameras of our body, and just like any sophisticated gadget, they need the right kind of care and maintenance. So, let’s break down the various ways we can keep our eyes in tip-top shape.

1. Conventional Health Treatments

These are your go-to solutions when you face eye troubles. Imagine walking into an eye doctor’s office – what comes to mind? Right, things like:

  • Prescription eyeglasses
  • Contact lenses
  • Maybe even eye drops

These are the standard tools in the eye care toolkit. They’re backed by years of research and can really help correct vision issues like nearsightedness or farsightedness.

Then, there are more advanced treatment resources like laser surgery. These procedures are all about precision and can offer long-term solutions to common eye problems.

2. Proper Lighting

The right lighting is crucial for eye health. Avoid harsh light and opt for soft, natural lighting whenever possible. Reducing glare is also important, so consider using anti-glare screens and matte finishes.

And don’t forget to adjust the brightness of your environment to reduce strain on your eyes.

3. Keep Hydrated

Never underestimate the power of staying hydrated. Adequate water intake helps maintain the natural salt balance in your eyes, preventing dryness and irritation. So, keep that water bottle handy and give your eyes the hydration they crave.

4. Alternative Approaches

Now, let’s dive into alternative remedies. This is where we explore options beyond the doctor’s office. Think about natural remedies, like using warm compresses for tired eyes – it’s like giving your eyes a cozy little spa treatment.

There are also exercises for the eyes, similar to yoga, but just for your eyes. These exercises can help strengthen your eye muscles and improve focus.

Another big one is nutrition. It is essential to eat foods rich in vitamins like A, C, and E, and minerals like zinc, can be a superfood for your eyes. These can include fruits, vegetables like carrots, green leafy vegetables, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids – these aren’t just tasty, they’re also great for your eye health.

5. Lifestyle Changes

Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about lifestyle. In our screen-dominated world, taking breaks from digital devices is crucial. It’s like giving your eyes a little vacation throughout the day. Wearing sunglasses isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s also about protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays.

And let’s not forget about getting enough sleep – it’s as important for your eyes as it is for your body and mind.

Whether it’s the tried-and-true methods from your eye doctor, some natural and nutritional boosts, or just making smarter lifestyle choices, there’s a whole array of options to keep those beautiful eyes of yours healthy and happy.

Psychological Benefits Of Healthy Eyes

Let’s now move on to the psychological benefits of having healthy eyes. It’s not just about seeing clearly; there’s a whole mental and emotional side to it that’s very interesting.

Boosts Your Confidence

First off, think about confidence. When your vision is on point, it’s like having a superpower. You can:

  • Read signs from afar
  • Appreciate the details in art
  • Catch a smile from across the room

This kind of clarity isn’t just good for your eyes; it boosts your self-esteem too. It’s similar to walking around with an invisible cape, knowing you can rely on your trusty eyes to navigate the world around you.

Helps You Communicate Better

Our eyes are key players in communication. They help us pick up on those tiny, non-verbal cues that make conversations richer. Healthy eyes let you:

  • Catch a friend’s wink
  • See the concern in a loved one’s expression
  • Share a silent joke with just a glance

This connection is a big deal for our mental health, as it makes us feel more connected and in tune with others.

Reduces Your Stress

And here’s a big benefit: stress reduction. Imagine trying to work or study with blurry vision. Frustrating, right? Good eye health means you can go about your daily activities without the added strain and stress of poor vision. It’s one less thing to worry about, and in today’s busy world, that’s a pretty big deal.

Improves Your Quality Of Life

Healthy eyes also mean better quality of life. You can enjoy:

  • The beauty of a sunset
  • The vibrant colors of a painting
  • The adorable antics of a pet

These visual experiences can be profoundly uplifting and contribute to a sense of joy and well-being.

Empowers You To Stay Independent

Lastly, there’s a sense of independence that comes with healthy eyes. When you can see well, you’re more self-reliant. You can drive, shop, or travel without needing extra help. This independence is empowering and plays a huge role in how we feel about ourselves and our place in the world.

Healthy eyes are about so much more than just 20/20 vision. They’re about confidence, connection, stress relief, joy, and independence. Keep those eyes healthy, and you’re not just taking care of your vision; you’re taking care of your mind and soul, too!

To Wrap Up

Remember, taking care of your eyes is more than just about clear vision; it’s about nurturing your overall happiness and mental health. Whether it’s trying out some new eye exercises, tweaking your diet, or just being more mindful about your screen time, every small step counts.

Don’t forget, your eyes are not just the mirrors to your soul, but also gatekeepers to your mental peace. So, take good care of them, and they’ll take care of you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Can I Treat My Eye Problem?

How Can I Clean My Eyes Naturally?

How Do You Soothe An Irritated Eye?

What is the best medicine for eye problems?
How do you cure blurry vision?
What are the safest eye drops?
Which is the best eye wash?
Is there a home remedy for an eye infection?
What is the fastest way to cure red eyes?
Can Ice cure sore eyes?
Is it OK to use eye drops daily?
What to avoid in eye drops?
Can I use water as eye drops?
What is the best natural eye lubricant?
How to get clear eyes?
Can lack of sleep cause red eyes?
Should I be worried if one eye is red?

How Can Therapy Help After Vision Loss From An Accident

Losing vision as a result of an accident can be a traumatic and life-changing event. Not only can it impact an individual’s physical abilities, but it can also have a significant emotional and psychological impact. This can include feelings of depression, anxiety, and loss of self-esteem. Therapy can play an important role in helping individuals cope with the emotional and psychological effects of vision loss, as well as adapt to their new circumstances.

Processing Thoughts and Emotions After the Accident

A person who has lost vision as a result of an accident may experience a range of thoughts and emotions. These thoughts and emotions can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the accident. However, some common thoughts and emotions that a person may have include:

Shock and Disbelief

The individual may have difficulty accepting that they have lost vision and may feel a sense of shock and disbelief.

Anger and Frustration

The individual may feel angry and frustrated about the accident, particularly if they feel that it was preventable.

Guilt and Self-Blame

The individual may feel guilty or blame themselves for the accident, even if it was not their fault.

Grief and Loss

The individual may experience feelings of grief and loss as a result of the vision loss.

Anxiety and Depression

The individual may experience anxiety and depression as a result of the vision loss, particularly if they are uncertain about how it will impact their future.

Loss of Independence

The individual may feel a loss of independence and may be uncertain about how they will be able to continue with their daily activities.

Fear of the Unknown

The individual may be fearful of what the future holds and may have concerns about how they will adapt to their new circumstances.

Isolation

The individual may feel isolated and alone, particularly if they have lost vision in one eye and may feel different from others.

It’s important to keep in mind that these thoughts and emotions are normal reactions to a traumatic event and that therapy can help individuals process and manage these feelings.

The Importance of Therapy

Losing vision can be a difficult and overwhelming experience that can cause a lot of emotional and psychological stress. Therapy can help individuals to process these feelings and to develop new coping mechanisms. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals to change the way they think about their condition and to develop new coping strategies. This can be particularly helpful for individuals who are experiencing anxiety or depression as a result of their vision loss.

Therapy can also help individuals to adapt to their new circumstances. For example, individuals with vision loss may need to learn how to navigate their environment using different techniques, such as using a cane or learning to read braille. Occupational therapy can help individuals to learn these new skills and to adapt to their new reality.

The Role of Family and Friends

It’s important to remember that therapy is not only for the person experiencing vision loss, but also for family and friends. Losing vision can be difficult for everyone involved and it is important for them to have support as well. Family therapy can help to address any concerns that may arise and to provide support for everyone involved.

The Therapy Process

  1. Initial assessment: The first step in therapy is to conduct an initial assessment to understand the individual’s needs and concerns. The therapist will ask questions about the accident, the individual’s physical and emotional state, and any other relevant information.
  2. Developing a treatment plan: Based on the initial assessment, the therapist will develop a treatment plan that addresses the individual’s specific needs. The plan may include different types of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or occupational therapy, as well as other interventions, such as support groups or medication management.
  3. Processing the trauma: The next step is for the individual to begin processing the trauma. This may include discussing the accident, exploring feelings and emotions related to the accident, and learning coping strategies.
  4. Addressing any related issues: Trauma can often lead to other related issues such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. The therapist will work with the individual to address these issues and help them to manage any symptoms.
  5. Adapting to new circumstances: After dealing with the trauma and related issues, the therapist will work with the individual to help them adapt to any new circumstances that may have arisen as a result of the accident. This may include learning new skills, such as how to use assistive devices, or developing new strategies for completing daily tasks.
  6. Maintaining progress: After the initial stages of therapy, the therapist will continue to work with the individual to maintain progress. This may include regular check-ins, continuing to work on coping strategies, and addressing any new concerns that may arise.

Conclusion

Losing vision as a result of an accident can be a traumatic and life-changing event. Therapy can play an important role in helping individuals cope with the emotional and psychological effects of vision loss, as well as to adapt to their new circumstances. From cognitive behavioral therapy to occupational therapy and rehabilitation therapy, there are many different types of therapy that can be used to help individuals who have lost vision as a result of an accident. Additionally, support groups can be an important resource for individuals who have lost vision as a result of an accident. It is important to talk to your healthcare professional to understand what therapies may be best for you and how they can help you manage your condition and improve your quality of life.

My Vision Loss

What is vision loss or legal blindness? Have you had vision loss or experienced any eye diseases?

My vision loss experience made my life miserable. These age-related macular degeneration vision problems made me depressed and anxious. The blindness changed my life, and I realized how vision is so important. Loss of vision is crucial. Read my vision loss story here.

challenges faced with eye issues.
Source: pixabay.com

It has been a month since I lost my vision. With this problem, the vision struggle was very challenging for me as I almost felt like living life was out of options. As much as I want to stay in this visual field and be a visionary, things around me seemed so frustrating, heartbreaking, and unbearable because of the loss. If you’ve had vision loss before, then you’d know how vision loss can be so debilitating and depressing.

The Start Of My Vision Loss

My sudden vision loss story all started a few months ago when I had this visionary infection due to my contact lenses. I never thought that I could suffer from visual impairment or partial vision loss because I always clean and store my contact lenses properly. For someone like me who had a lot of knowledge in terms of vision safety and precautions, I never imagined getting eye problems or infection on my eye blood vessels and that the visionary infection would lead to sudden vision loss.

But the unexpected visionary loss still happened. The last time I wore my contact lenses before I could even get an infection, the outer part of my eye, one or both eyes, was a bit itchy. Since I am used to that feeling, I thought it was okay and didn’t need any medical attention since it sometimes happens, especially when I get exposed to windy situations. I was able to manage it. But a few days after that, my eyes began to turn red, and it was as if the vision condition had already penetrated through my eye. Again, as I have said, it was typically common to happen, especially when I was overusing my contact lenses. Vision loss or being legally blind never came into my mind. Vision loss was so far from my thoughts.

Experiencing Partial Vision loss

Another day went by without vision rehabilitation, and I somehow found it hard to open my eyes. I’m experiencing partial vision loss. There’s just a lot of fluid coming out of it. It was the first time something was coming out of my eyes, and I was unsure what it was. So to address my worries, I went to see an eye specialist. The moment the doctor told me about my irreversible vision impairment, I paused for a while and reflected on the days that I didn’t immediately seek help to get an early diagnosis of the eye disease and consider low vision aids.

Will the use contact lens impair eyesight?
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Corneal Ulcer
The eye specialist told me that my eye condition was so severe that treatment and surgery were not an option anymore due to higher risk factors that made my visual acuity worse. It would eventually lead to partial vision loss. The doctor said I was dealing with a corneal ulcer. Hearing all those negative things about my vision health loss made me heartbroken, and the fact that the doctor told me that it would cause visual impairment or central vision loss made me lose all my senses.

Leading Causes of Loss of Eyesight Among Individuals

According to the World Health Organization, the global prevalence shows that the leading causes of vision impairment are:

      • Diabetic retinopathy due to diabetes (or high blood sugar)
      • Uncorrected refractive error
      • Glaucoma (damage in the optic nerve) or angle closure glaucoma
      • Cataracts (can be treated by cataract surgery)
      • Age-related macular degeneration
      • Uncorrected presbyopia
      • Giant cell arteritis
      • High blood pressure (due to lack of blood supply due to blood pressure)

It is important to get regular eye examinations to help detect eye conditions, especially for people with vision problems. Thus, it will greatly help in the prevention and early detection of certain eye diseases to avoid vision loss and blindness. Check out the National Eye Institute for more information and their disease control.

My Doctor’s Recommendation: Unbelievable!

It was not my visual loss that made me mentally unstable but the doctor’s decision.

He said that the only way I could get rid of the pain was to remove the pair of my eyes, and most doctors can’t do much to restore vision. I felt so devastated thinking about the anticipated vision loss that I panicked and burst into tears despite suffering from eye pain, but I still ended up choosing to remove my eyes – I had sudden vision loss.

lady encounters ocular issues
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Sudden Realizations
I was dealing with an infection in my eye for a long period. I was still hopeful that I could make it, have it successfully treated, and recover. I was trying so damn hard to stay positive despite losing my vision. I even told myself that despite what happened, I still had other senses that I could use. But who am I kidding? Living life with vision loss is so difficult that it made me rely on others.  I couldn’t be alone and do things on my own. Vision impairment made me helpless and dependent on others around me. The hardest part of my visual impairment is when I get so frustrated and overthink what could happen to me when others surrounding me get fed up.

a couple strolling on a park
Source: Pixabay.com

A Traumatic Experience with Vision Loss

Vision loss is worse than any trauma I experienced in my life. I regarded it as a dead-end for my capabilities. It made me hate myself more. My vision loss from that improper use of contact lenses, which resulted in an affected eye, made me regret all the things I did with my eyes. So, for those of you out there, remember that eye care is really important. If you think that you are used to doing something great, do not ever think that you can secure everything.

As with any uncertainties, permanent vision loss or hearing loss can follow you around, and if bad luck hits, you might endure irreversible damage of severe vision loss or even complete loss, in which you’ll be considered legally blind. Make sure to seek medical attention and schedule regular checkups and eye examinations with your eye doctor, even if it’s for one eye. Common eye disorders are always around us; even a simple distorted vision can lead to something like retinal detachment. I tell myself that it is part of age-related macular degeneration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes sudden vision loss?

What are the three types of vision loss?

Can vision loss be cured?

What diseases can cause vision loss?

What is the most common cause of sight loss?

Can stress cause visual impairment or vision loss?

Can depression affect your vision?

Does anxiety affect eyesight?

Why is my eyesight getting worse so quickly?

What are the early warning signs of macular degeneration?

How do I get my vision back?

Can blind eyes be cured?

Does vision loss affect the brain?

Who is most at risk for vision loss?

Can stress cause vision loss?

 

Diseases of the Eye

Here, we will be discussing an important topic – ocular diseases. Needless to say, this is a very significant subject as people all over the globe experience different eye conditions and common complications and infections all the time.

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Vision impairment or disorders are of a wide variety. With the fast-evolving rise of technology, many children and adults are now unaware of the damage they do to their overall well-being. And despite a lot of information one can gather from reading and watching educational videos, many people are still not taking care of their eyesight and often incur macular degeneration. Let’s talk more about it!

Taking Care Of Your Vision

Perhaps you are also guilty of spending too much time on the said devices that you haven’t noticed the impact the gadgets can have on your vision health, the risk of related macular degeneration, and central vision. You might think that as you age, it is normal to experience refractive errors. But the truth is, your daily activity from your early childhood is the most common cause of why your eyesight might suffer from common diseases like cataracts, clear vision loss, eye problems, and diseases. Using an eye remedy or wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses can only do so much to have a better-seeing eye. Those solutions are temporary solutions to protect one eye, let alone two.

Fortunately, there are ways that you can help reduce and prevent common eye disorders, like a cataract, which can affect your line of sight, from happening. Thus, below are some eye care tips that you might probably be familiar with to get an early diagnosis.

Eye Care Tips To Prevent Eye Complication

Watch Your Cholesterol To Prevent Or Avoid Vision Problems

You might not seem to believe it, but according to the National Eye Institute, lowering your cholesterol level and decreasing your saturated fat can help prevent vision loss. Some studies show an elevated amount of cholesterols in the body, and consuming many saturated fats entirely contributes to the development of age-related illnesses, such as wet AMD and degenerative diseases. If you don’t want to go through the pain of losing your eyesight, it’s better to control your cholesterol now.

And since cholesterols are known for damaging your body and contributing to other kinds of diseases, such as different types of diabetes and high blood pressure, it supports the medical impact of blurred and distorted vision since these diseases are linked to retinal infection.

Pay Attention To Your Overall Health: Bad Fats Can Cause Cholesterol Plaques

In some unfortunate circumstances, the bad fats can cause an early detection of cholesterol plaques that apparently get stuck in the blood vessels which then affect your eyes and lead to a disease or eye stroke known as Hollenhorst plaque. That explains why choosing the right food for your diet is a must.

You might want to reduce your intake of fast foods, processed meats, junk foods, carbonated drinks, etc. It is also vital that you pay attention to your overall health and drink a lot of water, watch what you eat, and regular exercise in general.

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Increase Omega-3 Intake To Reduce Inflammation

While you are advised to decrease the cholesterol levels and saturated fats in your body, increasing the good fats in return is beneficial for your eye health.
Omega-3 fatty acid is a must-obtain mineral in the body, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It is considered one of the beneficial sources of minerals that helps the brain, muscles, and immune system develop.

Decrease The Risk Of Significant Eye Related Problems

Omega-3 fatty acids are most common in some natural food sources such as oily fish, particularly salmon, and other vegetables such as seeds and nuts. But with the vast contribution of omega-3 in the body, many experts claim that it can help with preventing retinal detachment, related macular degeneration, aids dry and lazy eyes, glaucoma, eye diseases, and other symptoms. Low vision can cause straight lines, the wet form, and fine details to appear out of focus or blurred. The leading cause or leading causes of blurry eyes can vary from temporary conditions, such as dryness or fatigue, to more serious underlying issues like refractive errors, cataracts, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy. It’s important to consult with an eye doctor if you experience persistent blurriness in your vision to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

There are also tons of consistent studies that show people who eat a diet with a higher amount of omega-3 experience a decreased risk of developing age-related macular degeneration or degenerative disease.

Eat Foods With High Antioxidants

Antioxidants help fight free radicals from the body cells and reduce or prevent the harm caused by oxidation. A diet rich in antioxidants, primarily from fruits and vegetables containing high amounts of vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, Zeaxanthin, and, of course, Lutein, can help prevent or alleviate the harm caused by oxidative stress and reduce the risk of eye disease, including optic nerve diseases such as lazy eye and glaucoma.

Lutein: A Powerful Nutrient

Lutein is a powerful eye nutrient that keeps your eye’s lens immune from certain vision problems and common eye problems. It allows the photoreceptors of the retina to regenerate healthily and reduce cell loss and death related to an infection.

Lutein enhances the sharpness of your vision, reduces glare impairment, and improves your visual contrast sensitivity. It also plays a protective role for light-sensitive tissue, reducing the risk of conditions like age-related macular degeneration, and it helps alleviate symptoms of dry eye by suppressing inflammation and combating oxidative stress.

Source: pixabay.com

Take Supplements
If you are a picky eater and you find eating vegetables and fruits unenjoyable, you might want to consider taking eye health supplements. It might be the best alternative for you to maintain good vision health without trying to force yourself to change your diet instantly. There are tons of eye vitamins that you can easily find on the market.

You can easily buy one at drug stores or over-the-counter groceries. But note that for most people, eye supplements aren’t necessary, especially if they haven’t entirely got prescription eye drops for any eye sickness. But still, there are different eye vitamins out there that you can take to help you get structural eye support and prevent aging macular degeneration.

Healthy Foods To Prevent Macular Degeneration

But if you can, you should consider practicing eating healthy foods and taking care of your eyesight properly. Some of the habits that you might also consider are getting exercises for your eyes, resting them from time to time, and getting enough sleep. It is also vital that you schedule regular eye exams, even if you are taking eye supplements or an eye remedy for macular degeneration. It would also help if you could avoid smoking and create better, eye-friendly surroundings to prevent the disease from progressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are serious ophthalmic diseases?

They include conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts, all of which can lead to significant vision impairment or blindness if left untreated.

What is the most common eye infection?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is the most common eye infection, causing redness, itching, and sometimes a discharge from the eye.

What neurological disorders cause eye problems?

Neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, myasthenia gravis, and brain tumors can cause eye problems, including double vision, loss of vision, eye movement disorders, and optic neuritis.

What are some rare ophthalmic conditions?

What are the four most common vision problems?

Can a person suddenly go blind?

What causes blurred vision?

Can eye problems be serious?

Is glaucoma curable?

What are the five ophthalmic conditions?

How many types of ophthalmic conditions are there?

What are the most common ophthalmic conditions?

What are the symptoms of eye problems?

Is astigmatism a disease?

What ophthalmic diseases have no cure?

Slowing Down The Progression Of Glaucoma

 

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As we grow older, we begin to get anxious about our health, including our eye health. Maybe it was because our latest eye exam showed increasing pressure and redness in both eyes or perhaps a close relative was just diagnosed with glaucoma. Did someone tell you that glaucoma is a hereditary eye condition? If you already know this, then you also know you might need to take the necessary steps to prevent or slow down the progression of this eye condition.

Glaucoma Defined

It is an eye disease that destroys the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending impulses from the eye to the brain. When this is damaged, then the odds are likely that you will eventually lose your vision.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, at 65 years old, one out of three Americans will be diagnosed with a damaging eye condition. And second to cataracts, glaucoma is the second most common cause of vision loss across the United States. It is also one of the leading causes of blindness all over the world.

The primary cause of glaucoma is unknown, but increased eye pressure is said to be the most common factor. If it is left without any medical care, this eye condition will ultimately lead to blindness.

Glaucoma Risk Factors

It should be noted that there might be a higher likelihood for other individuals to develop glaucoma. Some of the risk factors include but are not limited to:

  • Age
  • A family history of glaucoma
  • Increased eye pressure
  • Nearsightedness or farsightedness
  • Past history of eye injury
  • Thin cornea
  • Existing conditions such as migraines, diabetes, and poor blood circulation

Developing two or more of these risk factors significantly heightens a person’s risk of developing glaucoma.

 

Source: eyeworld.org

 

Tips to Slow Down The Progression Of Glaucoma

Unfortunately, there is no known prevention of glaucoma. However, there are steps that we can take to slow down the progression of the disease and consequently reduce the risk of eye damage or vision loss.

  • Don’t Miss Your Regular Eye Checkups. This is essential in preventing glaucoma and other equally severe eye conditions. Routine eye examinations are a must. For glaucoma to be properly confirmed and diagnosed, the doctor conducts screening and inspects the drainage angle in both eyes. He will also check the status of the optic nerve and do a peripheral vision test. People who fail to have routine eye exams and develop glaucoma typically become aware of it only after they’ve sustained permanent vision loss from the disease. By that time, controlling glaucoma to prevent additional vision loss can be very difficult, explains Gary Heiting, OD.

Below is a list of age ranges and the number of times one is required to go for eye examinations.

Below 40 years old: once in five to ten years

40-54 years old: once in two to four years

55-64 years old: once in one to three years

65 years and older: once every one or two years

However, if your odds of developing glaucoma are relatively higher, then you must talk to your ophthalmologist about your screening schedules.

 

Source: vistaeyecarewa.com
  • Find Ways To Reduce Eye Pressure. For individuals who have developed increased eye pressure or ocular hypertension, consult your doctor so he can prescribe quality eye drops that you can use regularly to slow down the progression of glaucoma. According to Dr. Norm Zabriskie, MD, a glaucoma expert at the Moran Eye Center, “There have been multiple, very large, very well-designed and well-conducted studies both in the United States and in Europe and elsewhere…have fundamentally proven that lowering intraocular pressure, though not a cure, is absolutely beneficial in terms of either stopping or at least delaying the progression of glaucoma.”

The Glaucoma Foundation suggests that exercise is a great way to decrease eye pressure. They may walk or do light jogging three times a week.

According to Robert L. Stamper, MD, professor  of Clinical Ophthalmology and Director Emeritus of the Glaucoma Service at the University of California San Francisco, “a regular program of moderate exercise will benefit your overall health, and studies have shown that moderate exercise such as walking or jogging three or more times every week can have an IOP lowering effect.

  • Avoid Eye Injuries. Protecting your eyes from injury can greatly help avoid or delay the onset of glaucoma. In the home, keep away from too much dust when cleaning is done. When doing sports, keep your eyes injury-free by wearing protective gear.

These tips are basic but nevertheless vital in ensuring the health of your eyes. Practicing them may be your hope for zero eye damage until you’re 60 and older. Why not?

Screen Time And Eye Health

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It is not just you and me that spend a lot of time looking at the screen, such as on television, tablets, computers, and smartphones. Pretty much everybody is doing it regularly without noticing the danger of losing one’s vision. We know that it can significantly impact our health, but most of us tend to ignore the threat. According to Katherine Dahlsgaard, PhD, there is a mental health impact of excessive screen time, and she offers advice for setting limits. Model moderate screen use as a parent. Show your children, with your own behavior, how to live a rich, varied, and healthy life where all habits are practiced in moderation.

Reasonably,  it is an opportunity for us to consider taking care of our eyesight.

The Importance Of Understanding

It is not enough that we only know the possible things that might happen if we continue making unhealthy habits that damage our eyes. A lot of us are well aware of that. However, not all people are open to the idea of taking care of their vision. That explains why some people still use their contact lenses for more than the required hours. Some individuals often use their smartphones late at night. Some are even spending too much time in front of the computer without taking breaks as well. You see, people are stubborn that they do not seem to care what could happen to their health until things are a bit too late. That is the reason why when they only have a limited time to save their eye health, they try to do everything no matter what. It is ironic because no one with better eyesight is working on a list of proper eye care. Well, I think they are too confident to believe that they will never lose or damage their vision even if they habitually work on their bad routines.

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Sad Reality

Honestly, no one gets immediate dysfunctional eyes. It always takes a lot of time before something appears damaged. That gives people enough time to do whatever they want regardless of the harmful habit. Yes, if someone is spending time with his phone for more than ten hours a day and can screen time up to seven days a week within the span of three months, who would think that something terrible could happen? There is this people’s mentality that if they can maximize their eyesight usage without feeling pain, then things are still good. People believe that if something is not causing them unusual situations, there is nothing to worry about.

Another unfortunate reality this generation faces is the mental impact brought about by excessive screen time. “Children and adolescents who spent more time using screen media were lower in psychological well-being than low users. High users of screens were significantly more likely to display poor emotion regulation (not staying calm, arguing too much, being difficult to get along with), an inability to finish tasks, lower curiosity, and more difficulty making friends,” according to the research of Dr. Jean Twenge, PhD, and Dr. W. Keith Campbell, PhD.

Insight

Our eyes are sensitive; that is why it is essential to frequently consider taking a break from any digital use and activity. It will not hurt us if we lessen our screen time. It will not create a massive complication when we put our phones away for a couple of hours. It will not even make us suffer if we go to bed without checking our gadgets before going to sleep. You see, it all takes a change of habit to ensure our visions are in better health. We have to give our eyes a chance to move away from too much pressure and stress.

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Keeping our eyes safe and healthy is something that we can always do. Expert Dr. Anthony Fallone expresses the link between eyes and a person’s personality. He says, “The eye is so closely linked neurologically to the brain that you might call it the only part of our brain you can see from the outside. It seems to hold vital clues to our brain function.” As long we know and value the importance of our eyesight, we can have time to spare it from damaging habits.

What Causes Blurry Vision?

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There are a wide variety of eyesight problems that perhaps a lot of people are experiencing differently. There is the case of cataract, dilated pupils, crossed eyes, color blindness, and many more. But what most people are sharing the same is the condition of having a blurry vision.

“As organisms age, all their biological systems should be expected to break down and fail with increasing regularity, and eyes are no exception,” wrote Jesse Marczyk, PhD. “So what might explain why human visual acuity appears so lackluster early in life (to the tune of over 20 percent of teenagers using corrective lenses)? There are a number of possible explanations we might entertain.”

Perhaps that is due to the unhealthy practices that a lot of people do daily. It might include the pressure of spending too much time on mobile devices and bright screens. Anyhow, let’s take a closer understanding of what causes blurry vision.

Factors That Cause Blurry Vision

Refractive Errors

Some refractive eye errors result in the condition, such as nearsightedness or the inability to see things from afar. There is also farsightedness, which is the opposite of the latter. Then, lastly, astigmatism, where there is an irregularity on the surface of the eye’s cornea. All of these conditions are not at all severe and can be easily corrected with the help of glasses and specific contact lenses. But note that it is essential to consult an eye care professional before using any type of correcting-contact lenses and eyeglasses. That is to prevent the condition from getting worse.

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Eye Diseases

Some types of eye diseases may cause blurry vision. These include ocular migraine, dry eyes, eye floaters, macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and more. Any of these health conditions significantly contribute to the unclear vision. It is essential to consult a health professional about these specific cases to address the underlying issues that go along with it. Note that other factors can contribute to these eye diseases. So taking time in understanding all of them is as essential as well.

Change In prescription

As much as individuals desire to disregard the fact that drugs cannot affect their vision, well, it can. The individual who takes a drug prescription that suddenly changes the dosage or drug type is more likely to experience blurry vision. That is due to some of the medicine’s content that appears to stop the eye from producing water. The side effects of every drug vary, though. However, it is crucial to seek an eye expert when there is a sudden vision loss or change every time there is an instant replacement of medication.

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Blood Sugar Is High

Having diabetes for an extended period can cause blurry vision. This particular condition is what we call diabetic retinopathy. It is the state where a high blood glucose level damages the eye cells and prevents the blood vessels from delivering enough oxygen to the veins of the eyes. Usually, there are no symptoms of eye protein leak that one can notice. However, the loss of nutrients to the part of the retina signals the body to form new weak blood vessels. That explains why diabetic individuals often suffer from eye swelling and bleeding inside the eye.

 

Consultant psychiatrist Raj Persaud, FRCPsych, also wrote, “In a high stakes situation, as when even small deviations in visual acuity can have catastrophic career consequences, such as being a pilot, it is possible that people with a background of anxiety or depression, get more worked up about their eyesight.”

There seems to be a connection between eye condition and mental health. Carol Look, LCSW, DCH, did a study answering the question, “Is it possible for a person with a vision problem to improve their eyesight by using Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)?” There were limitations to the study, nonetheless, her results reported that “nearly 75% of participants in this study indicated that an improvement occurred in their vision during and by the end of the study.”

Whatever the cause is, it is vital to ensure that the eye receives the right amount of balance. So if any way some of these causes seem to get worse seek an eye expert immediately.

Improve Your Eyesight Naturally

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In today’s society, we are always spending time with our smartphones and computers. So it is pretty much a cliché if we keep on talking about how the eyes are getting all the unwanted pressure. We know that already, and it is very much evident that we take our eyesight for granted. But to be fair from the judgment, there are still ways that can help us save our eyes from everyday damage. But note that we should put an effort into understanding the things that we should be aware of to control situations. Remember, prevention is way too much better than cure.

How To Do It?

One way that helps improve eyesight is the reduction of time spent using smartphones. Yes, those little gadgets can have a massive impact on our eyes. The light that it emits, especially at night, is not that eye-friendly. With that, the less time we keep our eyes away from it, the more chances of saving our eyesight.

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Another way to improve our eyesight is by getting enough sleep. It allows the eyes to rejuvenate and repair itself because it gets enough rest. The longer it stays close, the better it receives hydration. Since the eyes usually work excessively, sleep can help increase blood circulation and function.

To protect the eyes from strain, a piece of advice that helps significantly is drinking enough water. Yes, our eyes are made up of water, too, so drinking enough water allows its hydration. The eyes should not stop producing water and must stay lubricated all the time. Because if it causes frequent dehydration, it may lead to severe vision problems.

A good posture is vital in improving eyesight as well. That is because it has a lot to do with the position of the body when looking into something. If we have a bad posture, we might excessively put the pressure onto the eyes by frequently tilting our heads, squinting, and even leaning forward in front of the object.

The diet also plays a notable role in keeping the eyes healthy. Always make sure that the eyes receive the right amount of nutrients from the foods we eat. It is vital to make a habit of eating fruits and vegetables every day. Never forget to avoid unhealthy diet, such as consuming too much junk food. Not only will it lessen the eyes’ function, but it can also bring a higher risk for eye diseases.

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Our eyes are way too sensitive, so we have to protect them all the time. One way to help it is by wearing sunglasses. It helps prevent the eyes from getting damaged by ultraviolet rays from the sun. Therefore, it is essential to use and wear eye protection when the surroundings are super sunny and bright.

These are some of the remarkable things we can do to help improve our eyesight. As long as we make an effort to keep it safe, there is a guarantee of having an excellent and useful vision.

Useful Tips In Relieving Eye Strain

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A lot of people think that having an eye strain is typical in everyday life. Perhaps that is because of the ideal time they spend staring at their books, smartphones, computer screens, tablets, and televisions. The eyes have to put up effort into looking at something within a few feet of a particular range. Sometimes, an average time runs approximately ten hours of eye exposure to such stuff. According to Timothy Legg, PhD, CRNP, “the Vision Council reports that 87 percent of those in the United States use one or more digital devices for more than two hours a day.”

Every day, everybody is looking at something close up, so there is quite a tendency that almost above the average of people experience eye strain. To relieve that, here are some tips to follow.

Take A Break

Eye strain is not something that people should worry that much. Taking a break from doing things that pressure the eyes is helpful. Let’s say individuals spend more than two hours with their smartphones, 20 seconds to 20-minute eye rest will help restart the function of sight. However, for those individuals who seem to suffer from headache along with an eye strain, it is much better if they rest for at least a couple of hours.

Blink And Look Away

People experience eye strain because of too much exposure in a close distance range. In most cases, they forget to blink due to the excessive amount of eye focus. So one way to reduce that eye tension is blinking and looking to a distance. The process will allow the eyes to find its center again and to move away from focusing on particular stuff. The appropriate shift of sight is at least 20 feet away, so always remember that.

“Rather than keeping your eyes focused on the computer screen for hours at a time, interrupt this process every 15 minutes by briefly looking out of the window or around the room,” says Andrew Dahl, MD, FACS. He also added that “when performing extended visual tasks of all sorts, occasionally stand up, move about, and stretch your arms, legs, back, neck, and shoulders.”

 

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Use A Wider Screen

For those individuals who often use a computer or laptop, it is much better if they use a wider screen. It helps in reducing eye strain when it gets angled-up a little bit. If people can get it in comfortable eye height, and a convenient front distance, that would be much better. Also, set up the light of the screen according to the light of the surrounding to help prevent glaring.

Make Use Of The Surrounding Light

Aside from the light of the screen, people should work in a well-lighted area. It will help in creating a balance surrounding that will enhance the eyes’ capability to function. Avoid reading or working in a dim room because it adds more strain on the eyes. If in case the light is too much, it is much better to adjust the positioning to get the right amount of light.

“Many computer users find their eyes feel better if they can avoid working under overhead fluorescent lights. If possible, turn off the overhead fluorescent lights in your office and use floor lamps that provide indirect “soft white” LED lighting instead,” says Gary Heiting, OD, and Larry K. Wan, OD.

 

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Set Up A Proper Workplace

When using the eyes, it is also essential to think about where to sit to get an angle comfortable with the desk. If it is possible to have the monitor away, that would be perfect. Setting it at least 3 feet away diminishes the amount of the eye’s effort in focusing on something.

These useful guidelines go a long way in keeping your eyes away from ocular strain and stress.  But remember that the health of the eyes will still depend on how much time and what task people should spend using it.

How A Therapist Takes Good Care Of His Eyesight

Every person needs to understand the importance of having good eyesight. Hence, everyone is highly encouraged to make time to see an ophthalmologist. Even if you do not feel any problem with your eyes, it is still best to go on a regular checkup with the said professional doctor. Do not wait before it is too late to act on your eye-related issues or problems. Jesse Marczyk, Ph.D., wrote, “…our technologies have been relaxing the selection pressures that were keeping it sharp. In other words, since humans invented glasses and granted those who cannot see as well a crutch to overcome this issue, any reproductive disadvantage associated with poor vision was effectively removed.” As early as now, you have to fully understand that regular checkups with a doctor are not sufficient. You must also seek other ways how to avoid having poor eyesight in the future. In today’s article, we are going to share some of the techniques used by a therapist to take good care of his vision.

 

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Below are some of the care tips or tricks that you may want to consider:

 

Wear Sunglasses When In Outdoors

 

One of the great things that you must always remember is to wear your sunglasses once you step outside your house during the morning or afternoon. Keep in mind that the sun releases UV rays that can be harmful, not only to your skin but even to your eyesight. Because of this, you have to remind yourself why it is crucial to wear your sunglasses if you will have direct exposure to the sunlight.

 

Get Sufficient Sleep

 

Are you aware that lack of sleep will not only make you cranky the following day? At the same time, it can also result in drowsiness to the point that you will always feel tired or exhausted during the entire day. When this happens, your eyes will become droopy. As such, it is crucial for you to see to it that you can get enough sleep every single night. “Getting enough sleep is important for your health and happiness—but “enough” doesn’t look the same for everyone,” says clinical health psychologist and host of the Savvy Psychologist podcast Jade Wu, Ph.D. Hence, she notes, “Keeping a consistent wake-up time will help you to get on the same page with your body and to have just the right amount of that sweet, innocent sleep.” Learn how to set your bedtime schedule and be strict in following it. Failure to do this can have adverse effects on your health and eyesight.

 

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Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

 

Some people are fond of rubbing their eyes, especially when they are exposed to a dusty environment. They believe that in doing so, they are cleaning their eyes. In reality, the truth is that it causes stress to your eyes. At the same time, it may even lead to irritation, especially in cases where you will touch the area of your eyes without washing your hands properly. If you feel an itch in your eye, the best thing to do is to use a doctor-recommended eye drop. Do not touch your eyes or any area near it with your bare hands to ensure that nothing will go wrong.

 

Consult With A Doctor

 

As already mentioned above, you must always find time to meet with your ophthalmologist. The eye doctor is the only person who is licensed and authorized to provide you with the correct diagnosis of your condition. Do not believe what you read online, especially if it talks about a worst-case scenario about your eyesight. If you feel that there is something wrong with your eyes, be sure to book an appointment with your eye doctor as soon as possible. It is crucial to act fast so that you still protect yourself from potential damage or harm.

 

Avoid Using Devices At Night

 

When you are already in your bed, it is suggested to keep yourself away from your gadgets such as your phone, tablet, or laptop. Take note that the light coming from these devices can cause adverse effects on your eyesight. “Even low levels of light, such as a dim bedside lamp, can decrease the production of melatonin (for this reason, you should never sleep with a “nightlight” on and use good blackout curtains), Susan Biali Haas, M.D. explains. “The light emitted from phone screens, shining directly in your eyes, suppresses the production of this crucial hormone in the evening.” Unfortunately, it will take time before you can notice the said effects. If you do not follow this tip, then there is a high possibility that you will suffer from poor eyesight in the future. In such a case, be prepared to start wearing prescription glasses.

 

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Eat A Balanced Diet

 

Another thing that you have to consider is to start investing your time and efforts into living a healthy lifestyle. Start your journey to wellness by following a balanced diet. The initial step is to create a meal plan wherein you will write down the list of healthy food items that you can consume within a given day or week. Be sure to strictly follow this plan to enjoy its practical benefits or advantages. Once you do this, you will experience a lot of improvements in your health. In the long run, it can also help to develop your eyesight or heal it in case there is something wrong with it.

 

Take good care of your eyesight while you still can. Act fast today to prevent future issues or problems.