Eye Care

Eyes have been described as being 'windows to the soul'. However, most of us barely realize the importance of our eyes unless we meet someone who has an eye problem or loss of vision or when our vision seems to start failing.  At such times, we may find ourselves shuddering at the thought of a world without light, color, shape and beauty. In order to take good care of our eyes, we need to be aware of the problems that could affect our eyes and how to take care of them properly. We should seek knowledge about the measures that can be applied to avoid these problems.

Eye care is necessary. There are several reasons why eye care is essential for us. Some of these include: Vision is an essential sense. Our life would be incomplete if we were deprived of vision even in one eye.

Our eyes are essential to help us in the performance of our daily activities so that we are able to fit in with our world and as not be a dependent or burden on those close to us. Eyes are essential to the full enjoyment of our life. Imagine the loss of a mother who cannot see her child’s smile, but must only sense it by touch and is unable to feel the beauty of this simple emotion!

The cost of corrective treatment for eyes that have not been well cared for is much more than what would have been expended on preventive measures in the form of eye care. Social activities would be constrained in an individual with impaired or lack of vision. As vision is so essential, a limiting of vision or the lack thereof can result in curtailment of employment and vocational opportunities.

Defects of vision
Some of the common defects affecting vision include:
•    Myopia (near-sightedness)
•    Hypermetropia (far-sightedness)
•    Astigmatism
•    Glaucoma
•    Cataract
•    Diabetic and hypertensive retinopathies    

Caring for the eyes
Just a few simple activities that can be factored into one’s daily routine provide significant eye care. Some of these include:
•    Annual eye check ups. Go to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) to get your eyes evaluated, at least once every year. This will ensure the identification and arrest of any eye problems with appropriate treatment in the initial stages itself and prevent future complications.
•    Avoid rubbing or meddling with the eyes and eyelashes. If there is a problem, such as itching or redness, consult a doctor instead of resorting to self-treatment.
•    Avoid looking directly at bright, intense sources of light.
•    Watch television from a minimum distance of six feet and restrict this activity to a maximum of 2–3 hours at a stretch.
•    Avoid use of chemical substances in and around the eyes. Eyeliners, eye shadows, etc., should be used minimally and with caution so as to avoid contact to the inside of the eye or the cornea.
•    Seek medical attention if you suspect your vision is diminishing.
Some symptoms of problems with vision include.
•    Diminished vision.
•    Redness or irritation in the eye.
•    Pain within the eyes or persistent or severe headaches.
•    Double vision.
•    Watering or discharge from the eyes.
•    Intermittent flashes of light or sparks in vision.
•    Sudden protrusion of the eyes.
•    Spots or defects in the visual field.    
•    Treat infections of surrounding areas timely with effective antibiotics. For example, infections of the sinuses can also cause inflammatory reactions to occur around the eyes and can contribute to pressure that can alter vision in cases with chronic sinusitis.
•    Follow the prescription for spectacles (glasses) after vision testing. If self-conscious about wearing glasses, ensure that you try out other options such as contact lenses or explore options of Lasik or ophthalmic surgery.
•    Workplace eyestrain is an increasing component of occupational disorders. Some measures to reduce eyestrain at the workplace include keeping the computer at an appropriate distance and height, looking away from the screen often enough to provide relaxation to the eye muscles, wearing appropriate prescription glasses or lenses, avoiding exposure to bright intense light or ultraviolet light.
•    Relaxation  techniques. Remember that your eyes need relaxation and care if they are to last for all your life. Apply cool compresses over your eyes if they feel strained or worn out.