Author Archives: Dr. Vaidya

In a peaceful park, a family gathered for a pleasant outing. The energetic four-year-old grew restless, causing a commotion by running around and complaining. However, in a magical moment, she suddenly became calm and content.
What’s the secret to this change?  Her father had handed her his phone. This common scene unfolds in parks, doctors’ waiting rooms, supermarkets, and public transportation capturing both understanding and sadness.
Many caring parents are unaware of the potential harm screen time can have on their child’s development.

Our lives have been changed, both positively and negatively, by screens. Screens encompass a variety of devices such as televisions, computer monitors, tablets, smartphones, dumb phones, children’s toy computers, Kindles and many more. Electromagnetic radiation in the visual spectrum is emitted by these screens, making them a significant presence in our daily lives. However, the impact of screens on our lives and those of our children is not always beneficial.

Recent reports reveal that approximately 50% of children aged 8 and under possess their own devices. These children spend an average of approximately 2.25 hours each day engaged with digital screens.

Prolonged & excessive screen time can result in eye-related issues.

Here are some of the ways screen time can affect kids’ eyes:

Eye Fatigue

Eye fatigue, also known as asthenopia, occurs when the eyes feel tired, vision becomes dim, and headaches occur. It can happen when children use their eyes too much, especially when they spend a long time looking at screens. Glare on the screen can make the problem worse and strain the eyes even more.

Children who experience eye fatigue may complain of headaches, eye pain, or feeling tired. They may also lose interest in activities like reading.

Dry and Irritated Eyes

When kids spend a lot of time using screens, their eyes can become dry and irritated. Research has found that people, regardless of age, blink less frequently when they’re focused on a screen, leading to dryness in the eyes. Having a clear and stable layer of tears on the surface of the eyes is important for clear vision. This issue can be more problematic for children who have to look up at a screen that is set up for adults.

Loss of focus flexibility

When kids keep their eyes focused on things up close for a long time, it can make it harder for them to see things in the distance. This is usually a temporary issue, and their eyes will adjust back to being able to see things both up close and far away.

Nearsightedness

Being exposed to natural daylight is really important for their eyes to develop properly. It’s not just about their overall health, but also about their eye health.

Research has shown that children who spend more time indoors are more likely to become nearsighted, which means they have trouble seeing things in the distance. Scientists are still studying exactly how this happens, but they think that UV light (as long as the eyes are protected from strong sunlight) plays a big role in keeping eyes healthy. The number of children with nearsightedness has increased in the past 30 years.

Does your child need blue-light filtering glasses?

Special glasses that filter blue light emitted from computers and other screens have gained attention, particularly with the increased reliance on online learning during the pandemic. Parents are often curious whether they should include these glasses on their child’s back-to-school supply list. While there is no evidence indicating that blue light is harmful to the eyes, it can impede children’s ability to fall asleep and contribute to eye strain. However, implementing strategies such as turning off screens an hour before bedtime, practicing the 20/20/20 rule, and following other recommended tips can effectively mitigate these issues, without requiring any purchases.

Help your child practice good eye habits

1. Screen Time Bonding– Whenever possible, try to co-watch with your children. If they are going to spend time in front of screens, the most beneficial approach is to join them and actively participate in the content they are consuming. By watching the same show or playing the same game, you can assist them in comprehending what they are seeing or experiencing. Take note of interesting aspects, raise questions about the plot or characters, and if someone on a show is singing a song, feel free to sing along with your child. 

2. Screen-to-Eye Distance– It is suggested to position screens at least arm’s length away to minimize eye strain. Ensure that the screen is positioned in a way that your child looks slightly down at it, rather than looking up. Implementing the 1-2-10 rule for screen positioning can be helpful: Hold phones approximately 1 foot away, sit around 2 feet away from laptops and desktops, and encourage children to sit approximately 10 feet away from the television.

3. Device-Free Time– Keep bedtime, mealtime, and family time screen-free. Don’t use screens in the car except for long trips, and consider setting a curfew or an agreed-upon time when your family shuts off all screens. Balancing online and offline time is extremely important.

4. Digital Role Modeling– It’s important to be mindful of your own phone usage and set a positive example for your children. Kids tend to imitate the behavior they observe in their parents, especially at a young age when their parents are their primary role models. If they see you constantly engrossed in screens throughout the day, they may perceive that as acceptable and develop a desire to do the same.

5. Vital Three– Emphasize: sleep, healthy nutrition, and exercise. All three are essential to optimal brain growth and development and health and wellness for children and adults alike. And excessive screen time can impact all three. Children who spend more time in front of screens have been shown to eat more fast food and less fruits and vegetables and get less sleep and exercise. Therefore, it is very important to incorporate healthy lifestyle choices as part of the daily routine, as well as limiting screen time.

Keep in mind that children, especially younger ones, may require assistance and gentle reminders to use digital screen devices in a way that is eye-friendly. As a parent, it’s important to be proactive in promoting healthy screen habits.

Also, our other blog might interest you:

• Unveiling Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, & Effective Treatment Methods
• How to protect eyes from harmful blue light and digital eye strain

Diabetic eye disease is one of the leading causes of blindness which can be prevented in over 90% of cases with early detection. The clinically validated RetinaRisk algorithm empowers patients and doctors alike by accurately calculating the risk of sight-threatening eye disease, while at the same time leading to efficiency and substantial savings in healthcare cost. Risk factors like Hba1c and blood pressure are taken into account.

RetinaRisk, a health-tech company from Iceland, has collaborated with Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, to develop a new mathematical tool tailored for the Indian population. This tool aims to assess the risk of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy, a severe form of retinopathy that can cause vision loss. By enabling early detection, it has the potential to reduce blindness resulting from diabetes.

Dr. Harshit Vaidya – Retina Specialist attended an inspiring session with a team of RetinaRisk at Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai.

Dr Vaidya eye hospital is among the first users of this algorithm, which holds great promise for the patients. Dr. Rajiv Raman from Sankara Nethralaya helped to get this opportunity. Dr. Harshit Vaidya met the team of RetinaRisk, including their Chairman, Mr. Bala Kamallakharan, and their CEO, Aegir bor Steinarrson.

India, unfortunately, carries the burden of being the world’s Diabetes capital, with approximately 80 million individuals affected by the condition. This puts a significant portion of the population at risk of diabetes-related vision hazards. According to the CDC, 90% of diabetes-related vision loss can be prevented through early detection and treatment. By utilizing this mathematical tool, we can accurately identify individuals at risk of vision loss due to diabetes and refer them to the appropriate eye specialists.

FAQs

How is patients’ annualized risk determined?

The annualized risk is calculated by a proprietary algorithm based on major, well-established risk factors for the development of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy. The algorithm has been validated for high predictive accuracy in Icelandic, Danish and Dutch diabetes cohorts.

Is the algorithm applicable to a variety of patient races and ethnicities?

The algorithm has been clinically validated and extensively used in clinical settings in Europe, the United States, Asia and Africa. The extensive clinical validation in Northern European diabetes cohorts of over 25.000 diabetic patients included a variety of races and ethnicities. Our team has also finalized a validation of the RetinaRisk algorithm in an Indian diabetic population, in collaboration with the Sankara Nethralaya Hospital in Chennai, where the RetinaRisk algorithm was again found to be extremely robust.

What causes diabetic retinopathy?

The longer a person has diabetes, the higher their chances of developing diabetic retinopathy. Prolonged periods of high blood sugar levels cause damage to the small blood vessels in the retina at the back of the eye. The retina is the film at the back of the eye, which receives light images and sends them to your brain. A healthy retina is essential for good vision. These blood vessels initially become leaky and then may become blocked off. The leaky vessels can lead to haemorrhages (spots of bleeding), fluid and exudates (fats) to escape from the blood vessels onto the retina. This may also cause swelling, known as edema of the retina. The blocked vessels can starve the retina of oxygen, leading to the growth of new abnormal vessels from the retina, and damage to the retina due to lack of oxygen. Good control of diabetes by controlling the blood sugar level helps to reduce the chances of developing retinopathy.

What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy may be asymptomatic until at an advanced stage and then it is often too late for effective treatment. Therefore, effective management of diabetes and regular eye examinations are imperative. Initially, diabetic retinopathy may cause few or mild symptoms but, as the disease progresses, it can lead to blindness. The main symptoms of diabetic retinopathy are blurred vision, black spots, flashes of light, and holes in your vision. Diabetic retinopathy usually affects both eyes.

When it comes to sun protection, most people think about sunscreen for their skin, but what about their eyes? The harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can harm eye health. This blog will discuss the importance of wearing sunglasses and practising UV safety to protect your eyes from potential damage.

Understanding UV Rays and Eye Damage

UV rays are invisible radiation emitted by the sun. There are three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA and UVB rays are the ones that reach the Earth’s surface and can cause damage to our eyes. Prolonged exposure to these rays can lead to various eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygium (growth on the white part of the eye), and even photokeratitis (cornea sunburn).

The Importance of Sunglasses

Sunglasses serve as a vital tool in protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays. They act as a barrier, blocking and filtering out a significant amount of UV radiation. When choosing sunglasses, look for ones that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. Additionally, sunglasses with larger frames or wrap-around styles offer better coverage, reducing UV exposure from the sides. Don’t forget about children—protecting their developing eyes from UV damage is crucial, so ensure they wear appropriate sunglasses as well.

UV Safety Practices

Wear sunglasses outdoors: Whenever you step outside during daylight hours, especially in bright sunlight or reflective environments like snow or water, wear your sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays.

Check for proper UV protection: Not all sunglasses provide adequate UV protection. Look for labels or stickers that indicate 100% UVA and UVB protection. Consider purchasing sunglasses from reputable brands or consult with an eye care professional for guidance.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat: In addition to sunglasses, wearing a wide-brimmed hat can provide extra shade and further protect your eyes and face from direct sunlight.

Seek shade during peak hours: When the sun is at its strongest, usually between 10 am and 4 pm, seek shade or stay indoors if possible. This reduces your overall exposure to UV rays.

Be mindful of reflective surfaces: UV rays can bounce off surfaces like water, sand, snow, or concrete, increasing your exposure. Take extra precautions when near such surfaces and wear sunglasses to minimize reflected UV rays.

Consider polarized lenses: Polarized lenses not only offer UV protection but also reduce glare, enhancing visual comfort, especially in bright conditions or while participating in outdoor activities like water sports or driving.

Regular eye exams: Routine eye examinations are essential for maintaining healthy eyes. Regular check-ups help detect any potential eye problems early on and allow for timely intervention and treatment.

Conclusion

Protecting your eyes from UV rays is crucial for maintaining good eye health in the long run. By wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection, following UV safety practices, and seeking regular eye care, you can safeguard your eyes and enjoy the outdoors with confidence, knowing that you’re taking steps to prevent UV-related eye damage.

Visit Dr. Vaidya Eye Hospital for expert advice and comprehensive eye care. Schedule your appointment today to ensure the health and safety of your eyes against UV rays.

Are your eyes regularly itchy, dry, or red? These are common symptoms of dry eye syndrome, a condition that can easily be treated to protect your vision. Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Let us explore the causes, symptoms, and various treatment options available to manage this uncomfortable and irritating condition.

What causes dry eye symptoms?

Several factors contribute to the development of dry eye syndrome. Environmental factors such as dry or windy climates, smoke, and air conditioning can lead to increased tear evaporation. Ageing, hormonal changes, certain medications, and medical conditions like autoimmune disorders and diabetes can also cause dry eye symptoms. Additionally, prolonged use of digital devices and excessive screen time can contribute to dry eyes.

What are the symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome?

The symptoms of dry eye syndrome can vary from mild to severe and may include dryness, itching, burning or stinging sensation, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and a feeling of grittiness or foreign body sensation in the eyes. These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities, causing discomfort and affecting vision quality.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye Syndrome

Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, known as artificial tears, are a common initial treatment for dry eye syndrome. They provide temporary relief by adding moisture to the eyes and reducing dryness and irritation. Preservative-free options are recommended for those with frequent use.

Prescription Medications: In some cases, prescription eye drops may be prescribed to manage dry eye symptoms. REFRESH TEARS® provides immediate lubrication and hydration to the eyes, offering temporary relief for mild cases of dryness and associated symptoms. Cyclosporine, known by the brand name Restasis®, an anti-inflammatory medicated eye drop designed for long-term use.

Punctal Plugs: Punctal plugs are tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to block tear drainage. By keeping tears on the surface of the eyes for a longer duration, punctual plugs help alleviate dry eye symptoms. They are typically a reversible and well-tolerated option.

Lifestyle Changes: Simple lifestyle modifications can also contribute to managing dry eyes. Taking regular breaks during prolonged screen time, ensuring proper hydration, using a humidifier to add moisture to the environment, wearing protective eyewear in windy or dusty conditions, and avoiding exposure to smoke can help reduce symptoms.

Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have been shown to help improve dry eye symptoms by reducing inflammation. Including foods rich in omega-3s, such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds, in your diet may also be beneficial.

Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene: Applying warm compresses to the eyes can help improve tear production and reduce eyelid inflammation. Additionally, practising good eyelid hygiene by gently cleaning the eyelids can help manage dry eye symptoms.

In-Office Procedures: In some cases, more advanced treatments like intense pulsed light therapy (IPL), and meibomian gland expression, may be recommended by an eye care professional.

What happens If you don’t treat Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome, experienced by millions of individuals, can be bothersome and more than just uncomfortable. It occurs when the eyes lack proper lubrication from tears. However, this condition can also serve as a potential indicator of an underlying health issue. Neglecting treatment for an extended period may result in complications such as infection, inflammation, and damage to the corneas.

Conclusion

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. By understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms, and exploring the available treatment options, individuals can effectively manage dry eyes and find relief from the discomfort associated with this condition. Consultation with an eye care professional is essential for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.
Seeking relief from dry eyes? Trust the experts at Dr. Vaidya Eye Hospital for specialized care and effective treatment options. Book your consultation today to start your journey towards comfortable and healthy eyes.