Too much screen time? Doctors share simple tips to improve eyesight
In this day and age where our screens hold the power of our vision, younger people have become more prone to wearing glasses. Most people think that certain diets or exercises can improve your vision and give clarity, however, experts disagree.
Dr Parul Sharma, Director & HOD, Eye Care, Ophthalmology, Max Hospital, Gurugram, told IndiaToday.In, that while some exercises may help with eye muscle coordination or relaxation, they don’t address underlying vision issues or improve visual acuity significantly.
“Vision is primarily determined by the shape of the eye and the health of its components like the cornea, lens, and retina. So, relying solely on diet or exercises to enhance vision is indeed a myth,” said Dr Parul Sharma.
While there is no specific diet or exercise regimen to directly sharpen vision, maintaining good eyesight involves adopting healthy habits.
Reduce screen time
Dr Sharma suggested that prolonged exposure to digital screens can strain the eyes and lead to symptoms like eye fatigue, dryness, and blurred vision.
Taking regular breaks from screen time allows the eyes to rest and refocus, reducing strain and minimising the risk of developing digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome.
“The 20-20-20 rule is a helpful guideline, suggesting taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes of screen use,” said Dr Parul Sharma.
Prioritise rest
Dr Dheeraj Gupta, Senior Consultant, Ophthalmology, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram said that the best way to improve your eyesight is giving it enough rest.
“Ensure your eyes get sufficient rest by aiming to sleep for 7 to 8 hours each night. If sleep is elusive, try to keep your eyes closed to promote relaxation,” said Dr Gupta.
Balanced diet
Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining overall eye health. Certain nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for eye health.
These nutrients support various functions within the eye, including protecting against age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and other vision-related conditions.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide the necessary nutrients for optimal eye health.
Regular eye check-ups
Dr Sharma advised that annual eye examinations help in detecting any changes in vision or underlying eye conditions early on.
“During an eye exam, an optometrist or ophthalmologist evaluates various aspects of vision and eye health, including visual acuity, eye pressure, eye muscle coordination, and the health of the retina and optic nerve. If any of these problems are detected early, it leads to timely treatment,” added Dr Sharma.
Maintain eye lubrication
Many people face eye dryness issues which can exacerbate future health problems. This mostly happens when you’re looking at the screen for a long time. This leads to a person blinking fewer times during the day.
“Opt for larger screens, such as tablets or TVs, when streaming content to reduce eye strain and that helps you blink more to avoid dry eyes,” suggested Dr Gupta.
No over-the-counter medicines
The experts said to address any eye issues promptly by consulting a doctor rather than self-medicating with over-the-counter remedies. Some medications may contain steroids, which can harm eyesight if used improperly.
These practices collectively contribute to supporting and preserving a clearer vision throughout your life.
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