Karachi, 12 Oct 2023: The essentiality of sustaining eye health is underscored in a thorough guide offered by the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), outlining five vital practices for maintaining clear sight and overall ocular wellness in our predominantly digital and environmentally challenging age. According to Dr Karim Damji, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at AKUH, consistent adherence to preventive eye care, inclusive of regular check-ups, dietary considerations, and cautious daily practices, is pivotal for sustaining healthy vision through varying life stages and external conditions.
1. Consistent Eye Examinations: Dr Damji underscores the necessity of routine eye exams as a cornerstone of comprehensive health, particularly after the age of 40 and for those with conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which could potentially impair vision. Recommendations also extend to pediatric care, suggesting initial exams soon after birth, at age 1, throughout preschool years, and annually upon school commencement.
2. Employing Protective Eyewear: Engaging in sports, utilizing power tools, and other activities potentially hazardous to the eyes warrant the usage of protective eyewear. Sunglasses, especially those with a UV 400 filter, shield eyes from up to 99% of harmful UV rays, mitigating risks of cataracts and macular degeneration, among other conditions.
3. Adopting a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Emphasizing the consumption of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids through leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and fish can notably decrease risk factors for several eye conditions while enhancing overall ocular health.
4. Implementing the 20-20-20 Rule: Dr Damji advises the 20-20-20 rule to alleviate digital eye strain: taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on an object 20 feet away, which can significantly reduce eye fatigue and safeguard against screen-induced eye damage. Additional considerations include glare reduction and ensuring adequate workspace lighting.
5. Embracing a Healthy Lifestyle: Beyond dietary practices, maintaining general wellness through regular aerobic exercise, smoking avoidance, diligent management of diabetes and high blood pressure, practicing proper hygiene, and adhering to safe contact lens practices are also integral to preserving eye health.
Dr Haroon Tayyab, Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, AKUH, affirms the imperative nature of immediate medical consultation should one encounter persistent or unusual eye issues, such as protracted redness, vision impairment, sudden vision changes, eye pain, swelling, or heightened light sensitivity. AKUH emphasizes that an active approach to eye health is not merely a choice but a fundamental responsibility, ensuring that we may fully perceive and engage with the world around us throughout our lives.