Diabetes is a metabolic disease that affects the body’s ability to metabolize blood sugar. It is a chronic condition. The body produces insulin in the pancreas that helps to deliver the sugar molecules to the cell. In normal circumstances, these molecules get picked up by the cells and are used up as the primary currency of energy. However, in certain conditions, either the body doesn’t produce insulin, or it may not create it in sufficient quantities, or the body may become resistant to the insulin present. This leads to high levels of glucose levels in the blood known as Hyperglycemia.
Hyperglycemia affects the body negatively in various ways. The most significant impact is on the organs leading to severe damage in most cases. The most affected organs are the kidneys, the people with diabetes-related and the eyes. In some cases, eyes and diabetes turn out to be a lethal combination. Between the ages of 20 to 74, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness.
The eye is a sensitive organ. One of the first signs of damage is blurry eyes. This could be due to fluid leaking in the eyes or clouding of the lens or some other reason. Any diabetic eye disease can turn out to be potentially blinding.
Three major eye problems develop because of diabetes. Let us find out more about eyes and diabetes.
1. Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a prime reason for irreversible blindness. The time since the onset of the disease determines the risk of developing retinopathy. If the disease has been present for a long time, the higher the risk of vision damage. Those with diabetes don’t realize about eye damage until complete vision loss, by when it is too late.
The retina is the light-sensitive part of the eye where the images are formed. Connected to the brain by the optic nerves, the signal for the image is sent from here to the brain. High blood sugar levels cause damage to the blood vessels and the nerves around the retina as they cause blockage and stop the blood supply. There are no symptoms of this eyes and diabetes connected damage until it is too late. When the damage is excessive, the following symptoms could develop.
Ӣ Blurry vision
Ӣ Color defects in vision
Ӣ Dark spots in vision
Ӣ Complete vision loss
Ӣ Dark strings floating in the vision
With treatment diabetic retinopathy can be reversed to an extent. But the best thing is to prevent it with early diagnosis. Prompt treatment can help prevent or delay vision loss from diabetic retinopathy.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Diabetic Retinopathy is of two types:
1.A. Early Diabetic Retinopathy: This is the more common form of and is also known as Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR). The eyes try to deal with the damage by creating newer blood vessels. When these don’t grow, NPDR is caused.
1.B. Advanced Diabetic Retinopathy: This is the more advanced stage of diabetes and eye damage. The damaged blood vessels seal up leading to the growth of new but abnormal ones. These can leak into the vitreous humour in the eye, a jelly-like substance found in the centre of the eye. This may cause an increased pressure buildup that eventually turns into glaucoma. Vitreous haemorrhage, retinal detachment, and permanent blindness are other complications that could develop.
2. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)
In the macula region of the eye, fluid buildup can occur. This is one of the leading causes of diabetic retinopathy related to vision loss. People with both kinds of diabetes are at risk. The disease has no symptoms until vision has been affected. The appearance of floating spots and bleeding may occur. Diabetes and eye damage are closely linked as is apparent through DME.
3. Cataract
Cataract affects the eye lens. Those with diabetes are two to five times more vulnerable to cataracts than their peers without diabetes. The lens of the eye gets clouded or foggy. Cataracts affect people with diabetes early in life, and the problem progresses quickly. Symptoms include:
Ӣ Blurry vision
Ӣ Light sensitivity
Ӣ Halos around lights
Ӣ Double vision, especially in one eye
Ӣ A vision that remains unaffected by wearing spectacles
4. Glaucoma
The eyes are nourished by a fluid that keeps them moist and active. Sometimes, this fluid doesn’t get drain and leads to a pressure buildup in the eye. This causes damage to the optic nerves leading to vision changes and sometimes, even blindness. This condition is known as Glaucoma. People with diabetes are at twice the risk of developing glaucoma than their counterparts. Like with other eye problems for diabetics, the problem is discovered only upon vision loss. Symptoms include:
Ӣ Loss of peripheral vision
Ӣ Red eyes
Ӣ Eye pain
Ӣ Nausea
Ӣ Halos around lights
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can cause vision loss and blindness in people who have diabetes. It affects blood vessels in the retina. If you have diabetes, it’s important to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
You cannot always control diabetes and eye damage. You could reduce the risk of vision damage and organ damage by following specific preventive measures.
1. Manage Your Diabetes
The best way to prevent vision loss and diabetes and related eye damage is by keeping the blood glucose levels on an even keel. Control your diabetes by eating healthy, exercising and taking medicines regularly.
2. Get Regular Eye Tests Done
Regular visits to the ophthalmologist are a must for those who have diabetes as there are usually no symptoms of damage. Observe vision changes and consult the doctor immediately if you notice any vision loss.
3. Control the Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
A moderate amount of cholesterol and healthy blood pressure help to keep the eyes healthy for longer.
Treatment for most eye problems is done through eye drops, laser surgeries, medication, and surgical procedures. Efficient management of blood sugar is advised. Controlling blood pressure is also recommended. Medicines include anti-VGEF medicines which help to reduce swelling in the macula. They are administered through injections and aim to improve vision. Steroid medicines are also given. They are also injected into the eyes. Laser surgeries help to seal off leaking blood vessels. They also reduce retinal swelling.
Read More About: How To Control Diabetes?
Timely eye checkups, early detection of vision problems, proper medical care and efficient follow-up with the ophthalmologist are the only ways to prevent diabetes-related eye damage. Manage your diabetes with a healthy lifestyle and control the blood sugar levels to delay vision loss.
Read More About Eye Care Tips – Simple Tips for a Healthy Vision
Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation
If we had a dime for every time someone told us that sitting too close to the television can result in poor eyesight, we would all be millionaires today. But we are not, and that’s because this is just another popular myth that found its feet in our grandparents’ time and has since been handed down the generations.If you still beat yourself up about watching the television from up close or chide your children for doing it, it may be time to consign this information to the myths folder, as there is absolutely no scientific evidence to support the claim that being in close vicinity of the television screen can hamper your eyesight or cause severe eye damage.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Just because you spend your entire day at the office sitting on a desk doesn’t mean you cannot make the situation better. Ergonomics is the science of designing your workstation in a manner that fulfils the requirements of the worker and reduces his discomfort. By following specific tips and tricks, you can make your workplace comfortable to decrease fatigue levels and help deal with physical stress. Bad posture and a poorly designed workstation can lead to serious health problems. Here are some things you can do to increase your productivity.
Chair
Choose a chair that does not stress your spine. Something that has a backrest along the spinal curves is the best choice. Adjust the height of the chair such that your feet are resting flat on the ground. The thighs should be parallel to the floor. When your arms are resting on the armrest, the shoulders should be relaxed.
Proximity
Keep the things you usually need during a workday close to your body. This will reduce your effort to reach out for these things. So staplers, phone, mobile, water bottles, etc should be just a movement away.
Phone
If you need to use the phone frequently, use speakers or headphones instead of cradling it between your neck and head.
Computer Peripherals
The keyboard and mouse should be placed on the same surface. When using both these accessories, your wrists should be straight, and the hands should be either at the level of the elbows or slightly below them. The weight of your arms should always be supported.
The Head
Observe the position of your head. It must always be above the base of its support, that is the neck. Avoid sitting with your neck craned forward.
Slouching
Many of us move into the slouching position without realizing it. It is detrimental for the spinal vertebrae and discs. Use lumbar support provided with the chair to prevent slipped discs because of bad posture.
Eye Strain
Prevent strain on the eyes by keeping your monitor at eye level and an arm’s length away. Close your eyes to rest them for five minutes after every one hour. Avoid placing the monitor before a window or a light source. Try to reduce glare from the screen as much as possible.
Desk
Ensure that you have a clearance space under the desk. Adjust the height of the desk if it is too low or too high. Use a footrest for supporting your legs. Avoid storing your items under your desk to give yourself enough space.
Lighting
Many offices do not have appropriate lighting concerning their computers. The light should be moderate and fall indirectly on the workstations.
Exercises and Breaks
Take short, frequent breaks to get rest. Just walking around the desk is a good break. You could also do some exercises to relieve tension in your body.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) or digital eye strain is a group of vision problems that develop due to the continuous use of digital appliances like computers, phones, tablets, e-readers and laptops. Most of us are glued to our computer or phone screens throughout the day. The problems increase for those who already suffer from vision problems, wear spectacles or lenses and those who are older. Due to the increased usage of phone and tablets by kids, even they are developing computer vision syndrome.
CVS happens because of the repetitive motion of the eyes over a period of time. The longer one continues the habit of extensive screen time, the problem gets worse. The eyes have to repeatedly adjust their focus as they continue reading over the computer screens. If you need to look at the paper then they have to again readjust their muscles to deal with changing images. With screen time, the problem increases as the eyes have to deal with glare, flickering and contrast on the screen. For those above 40 years of age, due to degeneration of the optic muscles, CVS becomes a real threat.
Resting the eyes for 15 minutes after two hours of continuous computer use is the best. if not possible 20-20-20 rule ie for every 20 minutes of computer viewing, look into the distance of atleast 20 ft away for 20 seconds to allow the eyes a chance to refocus. Frequent blinking to minimize the chances of developing dry eye when using a computer, try to blink frequently.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Some symptoms of CVS are:
Ignoring the symptoms will increase the problem, so if you have any of these issues consult your doctor.
Most symptoms associated with CVS are temporary, and they go away a few hours after you stop using the digital screen. If problems leading to consistent eye strain are not resolved, repeated experience of these issues can lead to reduced visual acuity after stopping work on the screen, and this may get worse.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
The severity of the symptoms that the patient experiences will depend on his visual ability, how much screen time they do if they have prior vision problems and their age. Many people experience a regression in the symptoms when they reduce their screen time or begin resting their eyes regularly. Doing certain things right helps to alleviate the problem.
Many people benefit from using eyeglasses or contact lenses specially prescribed for computer-related work. Those whose vision doesn’t improve with these may need vision therapy. The eye exercises help to improve the user’s experience of a computer. One is the 20-20-20 rule. In this after every twenty minutes, the person should look away at an object twenty feet away for twenty seconds.
Keep the screen 15-20 degrees lower than eye level and roughly about 28 inches away from the face. Keep the reference materials, if any, at screen level.
To avoid glare from the screen, adjust the position of the screen. Avoid keeping the screen against a window or a light source. Use an anti-glare screen if possible. Ensure that there is no overhead lighting above the screen. Change the factory settings of your screen to suit your needs. Adjust screen brightness, contrast and font size.
To avoid dry eyes, remember to blink frequently as it keeps the eye surface moist.
Getting a regular eye examination helps to recognize symptoms of CVS. Also, get a regular eye exam for the kids.
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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Ever wonder what is a cataract? A cataract is the leading cause of blindness in the world. When a clouded, denseness appears in the lens of the eye, it is known as a cataract. The dense clouds are due to the clumping of proteins. The cloudiness prevents the lens from sending signals to the brain. The onset of the disease is gradual and can eventually lead to a complete loss of vision.One or both eyes may get affected. If the cataract is present in both eyes, chances are it would have developed at different times.SYMPTOMSThe symptoms of cataracts are pronounced.
Whatever we enjoy be it food, places or things, we first enjoy them with our eyes. To have a healthy vision is a blessing that cannot be taken lightly. Just shut your eyes for a minute and you will realise just how much of our living we do with our eyes. We take such great care of the rest of our body all with exercises and asanas but somehow we ignore our eyes. These, too need a conscious effort from our end to protect and maintain them. Here are a few tips for healthy eyes:
Can this be stressed enough? Eat your green leafy vegetables and add more fruit to your diet. What’s natural is what is good for your eyes. So add the spinach to your salad and have that apple instead of a bag of chips. Fish is especially beneficial for the eyes. Have it twice a week for best results.
Surprised? Yes, beauty sleep does feature tips for healthy eyes! Apart from doing wonders for your skin and hair, adequate sleep will work like a charm for your eyes. The night owls should take note of this. Resting your eyes at night will ensure their vitality for longer.
Here is another reason not to shirk that visit to the doctor. Regular checkups ensure that you will catch the problem in its infancy. Every six months get your eyes tested without fail. Also, do not self-medicate but rather seek medical help as and when needed. This is an important tip for healthy eyes.
Clean your hands and your contact lenses properly. To avoid the risk of infection, always wash your hands thoroughly before putting in or taking out your contact lenses. Make sure to disinfect contact lenses as instructed and replace them as appropriate.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Smoking and drinking dry out the ocular tissues. They tend to damage the eye muscles making you susceptible to an earlier onset of cataract, glaucoma and other eye problems.
Sunglasses, apart from increasing your style quotient protect your eyes from sunlight and UV rays. Avoid venturing out if the light is too strong. If you are into swimming, ensure that you jump in the pool only after wearing your swimming goggles.
Digital eye strain is most common cause of eye strain nowadays. Spending long periods looking at a screen can strain the eyes. Using the 20-20-20 rule can help to prevent this problem. For every 20 minutes a person looks at a screen, they should look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
When you exercise regularly, the heart pumps blood to all organs, including the eyes. More oxygen and a higher volume of blood to them makes them healthy and fit.
Everything is done digitally these days. Take regular gaps between working and rest your eyes by shutting them for some time. The glare from the computer and phone screens is particularly tiresome and can cause severe eye fatigue.
Aim the air conditioner vents in your car and in your room away from your eyes. Dry air is really harmful to your eyes and can even cause your cornea to tear. While the eyes have the ability to repair these tears over a period of time but continually exposing your peepers to dry air could even lead to blindness.
Before you crash out for the night, don’t forget to clean out eye makeup, even your kohl. Minute pieces of makeup can prove to be a nuisance for your eyes and can even cause abrasions. Wash them with cold water before you retire to bed.
Also Read: Misdiagnosed Eye Conditions: Is it Pink Eye or Something Else?
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
One of the most sensitive organs in our body, our eyes are subject to many myths and old wives tales. When it is a matter of sight, it is better to chaff out facts from fiction. From disbelieving hysteria around contact lenses to the killing fields that are the close quarters between eyes and screens, you have heard it all. We help you wade through the fog of paranoia around your eyes and tell you what is right from wrong when it comes to our visual sensory organs.
The clouding of the eye lens is known as a cataract, and this condition leads to blurred or impaired vision. The cataract is slow to develop and will affect both eyes in most cases. The only way to get rid of the cataract is to go for cataract surgery. In India, it is said that three out of four Indians aged 60+ suffer from this eye condition.
According to the World Health Organization, Cataract surgery is the surgical removal of the clouding of the lens in the eyes which impedes the passage of light. Most cataract cases are old-age related, however, at times, some children are also born with this eye condition. In some cases, people may develop a cataract after an eye injury, some eye disease or inflammation.
Unlike earlier days, cataract surgery is a common phenomenon and not dangerous.
Children can also suffer from cataract, pediatric cataract is an important cause of treatable childhood blindness, provided it is recognised and managed early.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
What exactly is cataract surgery? Let us see!
When the light rays pass through the eye lens, it forms an image on the retina, and the impulses are then carried to the brain where the signals are processed. Over the years, the lens of the eyes may start clouding, and this poses as an obstruction that prevents the rays of light from entering the eyes. This causes the vision to become blurred, dimmed and even blotted.
cataract surgery nearly painless with a quick recovery process, but it also has a very high success rate — 97-98% according to recent studies. This is because it is a common surgery that involves very few (if any) possible complications.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
What is the process of cataract surgery?
Unbeknownst to many, the cataract surgery is one of the easiest, efficient and the safest eye surgery possible. In the cataract surgery, the process involves the breaking of the original lens, removing it and replacing it with an artificial one.
There are three methods to solve the cataract problem:
Don’t be daunted with the medical jargon as simply put they explain the different ways of breaking down the lens in the eyes. This can be done via ultrasound method or by using laser beams. The Phaco technique is by far the most used technique in cataract surgery. However, it is now being replaced by the laser beams technique as it has more accuracy.
To understand the process of cataract surgery in detail, consult your doctor today.
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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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