This generation has grown up with the most exposure to screens than any other generation before it. Added to this are the numerous consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic – one of them being the move to online platforms.
Medical professionals are anticipating a steep increase in the occurrence of ailments like migraines, vision problems, and other pandemic-induced health issues. This is why it is imperative to take precautionary measures, especially when everything is still online, and prioritise ocular health, for example, by taking frequent breaks when possible. Another solution that is becoming increasingly popular is blue light glasses in Australia.
Migraines and Headaches Australia, for example, is the only organisation dedicated to sufferers of migraines and headaches, proving how serious and prevalent an ailment it is, as they have supported nearly 6 million Australians that suffer from migraines/ headaches. With many parts of Australia going back into lockdown, online classes have started up again. This means that not just adults but countless children spend their entire days just looking at a screen, and this is bound to have worrisome repercussions a couple of years down the line.
Why are blue light glasses required?
Screens from smartphones and laptops emit blue light that can damage retinas due to prolonged exposure. Blue light can repress the body’s production of melatonin – the sleep-inducing hormone. Indications of eye strain from over-exposure to screens/ blue light damage include disturbed sleep, inability to fall asleep, eye fatigue, etc.
Blue light glasses have specially tinted lenses that can filter out incoming blue light from screens to help reduce eye strain and potentially restore sleep cycles. They are commonly purchased in spectacle stores, so finding blue light glasses in Australia will not be a problem.
Eye check-ups and glasses
One of the best things to do to ensure proper eye care is regular eye check-ups. Over time, the diagnosed vision power changes, and this needs to be corrected as and when it does. Headaches and blurry vision during or after using your current glasses are often the most prominent indicators that it’s time to get your eyes checked.
Proper and effective usage of the prescribed glasses/ contact lenses can go a long way in ensuring optimum visual functionality.
DIY eye care at home
In addition to appointments with an ophthalmologist, there are many ways to care for your eyes at home. For those with dry eyes, eye drops purchased over the counter (OTC) will lubricate the eyes and provide quick relief.
Frequent breaks from screens, especially during online learning in many parts of Australia, will prevent eyes from feeling tired and strained.
Rinsing eyes with cold water is another way to feel refreshed and rejuvenated, no matter the time of the day.
Lifestyle changes
To ensure long term eye health, certain lifestyle changes are necessary. These changes are not entirely restricted to ocular well-being but also overall physical and mental health.
They include having a proper sleep schedule that ensures one’s body is getting enough rest and is vital for restoring moisture for well-rested eyes.
In addition to good sleep, a strong diet rich in vitamins, specifically, is beneficial for eye health. It includes:
- Dark, leafy greens (Vitamin A and E)
- Eggs (Zinc, Vitamin A, as well as yellow-coloured compounds that counteract blue light)
- Broccoli/ Brussel sprouts (Vitamins A, C and E) etc.
Fun fact: Contrary to popular belief, carrots aren’t the best vegetables to consume for better eyesight. Although they are rich in Vitamin A, their consumption was only encouraged in undernourished regions to improve eye health. However, the vegetables mentioned above are much more potent.
All in all, to maintain eyesight and take better care of one’s eyes, it is important to rely on a combination of professional/ medical intervention along with a healthy lifestyle.
