Diwali, often referred to as the festival of lights, welcomes a season of happiness, festivity, and community. However, it can also pose some risks to our health, especially our eyes if proper care is not taken. Since it's a time to celebrate with dazzling fireworks and bright diyas, it becomes&nbsp;crucial to prioritise eye safety, especially when it comes to children, says, Dr Neeraj Shah, Chief Medical Officer, Cataract, Cornea &amp; Refractive Services, Sankara Eye Hospital, Jaipur.

Here are some essential eye care tips for children during Diwali:

Limit Firework Exposure: Limiting the exposure of children to fireworks which can be exceptionally bright and noisy especially those that produce intense flashes of light is necessary. Protective eyewear while bursting crackers is a must. The eyewear needs to specifically provide safety against crackers.

Supervision is Key: Children are naturally curious, and they may be drawn to fireworks. Always supervise them closely during fireworks displays to prevent them from handling or getting too close to fireworks, which can result in serious eye injuries.

Educating on Firework Safety: Teach children about the importance of maintaining a safe distance from fireworks. Ensure that they never attempt to relight a firework that hasn't gone off as intended, as this can lead to accidents. Tell them to keep their faces away from crackers while trying to light them

Avoid Sparklers: Sparklers, often considered safe for children, can actually be dangerous. They burn at high temperatures and can cause burns or eye injuries. It's best to avoid them altogether.

Wash Hands Thoroughly: After handling fireworks, ensure that children wash their hands thoroughly. They should avoid touching their face, especially their eyes, until their hands are clean to prevent the transfer of potentially harmful chemicals.

Stay Away from Cracker Debris: After fireworks have been set off, the area can be littered with debris. Ensure that children stay away from these areas to prevent accidental eye injuries from debris or small explosive materials.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-breathing-easier-how-to-minimise-the-impact-of-air-pollution-on-lung-health-656062">Breathing easier! How to minimise the impact of air pollution on lung health</a>

Use Diyas Safely: Diyas and candles are integral to Diwali celebrations. Teach children to handle them with care to avoid burns or accidents. Always place them out of their reach to prevent accidental contact.

Prevent Smoke Exposure: Smoke from fireworks can irritate the eyes. If possible, celebrate with eco-friendly and low-smoke fireworks. Keep the area well-ventilated to reduce exposure to smoke.

Eye Drops and First Aid: Have basic eye drops and a first-aid kit on hand in case of minor irritations or accidents. One should seek immediate medical attention in case of any eye injury during the festive season.

While celebrating Diwali, one must not forget to&nbsp;prioritise safety and health, especially when it comes to children. So make sure your kids have a Happy Diwali by following the above-mentioned eye care tips.

Diwali, often referred to as the festival of lights, welcomes a season of happiness, festivity, and community. However, it can also pose some risks to our health, especially our eyes if proper care is not taken.

Diwali, often referred to as the festival of lights, welcomes a season of happiness, festivity, and community. However, it can also pose some risks to our health, especially our eyes if proper care is not taken. Since it's a time to celebrate with dazzling fireworks and bright diyas, it becomes crucial to prioritise eye safety, especially when it comes to children, says, Dr Neeraj Shah, Chief Medical Officer, Cataract, Cornea & Refractive Services, Sankara Eye Hospital, Jaipur. Here are some essential eye care tips for children during Diwali: Limit Firework Exposure: Limiting the exposure of children to fireworks which can be exceptionally bright and noisy especially those that produce intense flashes of light is necessary. Protective eyewear while bursting crackers is a must. The eyewear needs to specifically provide safety against crackers. Supervision is Key: Children are naturally curious, and they may be drawn to fireworks. Always supervise them closely during fireworks displays to prevent them from handling or getting too close to fireworks, which can result in serious eye injuries. Educating on Firework Safety: Teach children about the importance of maintaining a safe distance from fireworks. Ensure that they never attempt to relight a firework that hasn't gone off as intended, as this can lead to accidents. Tell them to keep their faces away from crackers while trying to light them Avoid Sparklers: Sparklers, often considered safe for children, can actually be dangerous. They burn at high temperatures and can cause burns or eye injuries. It's best to avoid them altogether. Wash Hands Thoroughly: After handling fireworks, ensure that children wash their hands thoroughly. They should avoid touching their face, especially their eyes, until their hands are clean to prevent the transfer of potentially harmful chemicals. Stay Away from Cracker Debris: After fireworks have been set off, the area can be littered with debris. Ensure that children stay away from these areas to prevent accidental eye injuries from debris or small explosive materials. Also read: Breathing easier! How to minimise the impact of air pollution on lung health Use Diyas Safely: Diyas and candles are integral to Diwali celebrations. Teach children to handle them with care to avoid burns or accidents. Always place them out of their reach to prevent accidental contact. Prevent Smoke Exposure: Smoke from fireworks can irritate the eyes. If possible, celebrate with eco-friendly and low-smoke fireworks. Keep the area well-ventilated to reduce exposure to smoke. Eye Drops and First Aid: Have basic eye drops and a first-aid kit on hand in case of minor irritations or accidents. One should seek immediate medical attention in case of any eye injury during the festive season. While celebrating Diwali, one must not forget to prioritise safety and health, especially when it comes to children. So make sure your kids have a Happy Diwali by following the above-mentioned eye care tips.

Eye care tips for children for a happy Diwali

Living in Delhi-NCR, considered&nbsp;vibrant and bustling, comes with its own set of challenges, one of which is coping with high levels of air pollution. Among the many health concerns associated with this issue, one often overlooked aspect is the well-being of your eyes. The harmful pollutants in the air can take a toll on your health, including your precious eyesight. However, with some proactive measures and good habits, you can protect and care for your precious eyesight amid the severe pollution.&nbsp;

Here are some expert-approved tips for maintaining healthy vision in Delhi-NCR.

Use Eye Protection: When the air quality is poor, consider wearing protective eyewear, such as wrap-around goggles or safety glasses, to shield your eyes from dust and pollutants. This can prevent irritation and redness.

Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality: Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home and workplace to reduce indoor air pollutants. Clean air indoors can help alleviate eye discomfort caused by external pollution.

Practice the 20-20-20 Rule: If you work on a computer or stare at screens for extended periods, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on an object 20 feet away. This reduces eye strain and helps relax your eye muscles.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-breathing-easier-how-to-minimise-the-impact-of-air-pollution-on-lung-health-656062">Breathing easier! How to minimise the impact of air pollution on lung health</a>

Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: If your eyes itch or feel irritated, resist the urge to rub them. Instead, rinse your eyes with clean, cold water or use lubricating eye drops recommended by an eye specialist.

Regular Eye Checkups: Schedule regular eye examinations with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to monitor your eye health. Early detection of issues like glaucoma or cataracts can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eat a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients that promote eye health, such as leafy greens, carrots, fish, and nuts. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can help reduce the risk of dry eyes.

Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the health of your eyes. Dry eyes can be a common issue due to the pollution and dry climate in the region. Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on air quality reports and pollution levels in your area. On days with poor air quality, take extra precautions to protect your eyes and overall health.

Your eyes are a precious gift, and it's crucial to take steps to safeguard them, especially in places like Delhi and NCR. By following these tips and making eye care a priority, you can maintain healthy vision and enjoy clear eyesight for years to come, even in the face of environmental challenges. Remember, regular check-ups and proactive measures can go a long way in protecting your eyes from pollution-related issues.

(With inputs from Dr&nbsp;Ajay Sharma, Chief Medical Director of Eye-Q Super Speciality Hospitals)

Living in Delhi-NCR, considered vibrant and bustling, comes with its own set of challenges, one of which is coping with high levels of air pollution. Among the many health concerns associated with this issue, one often overlooked aspect is the well-being of your eyes.

Living in Delhi-NCR, considered vibrant and bustling, comes with its own set of challenges, one of which is coping with high levels of air pollution. Among the many health concerns associated with this issue, one often overlooked aspect is the well-being of your eyes. The harmful pollutants in the air can take a toll on your health, including your precious eyesight. However, with some proactive measures and good habits, you can protect and care for your precious eyesight amid the severe pollution. Here are some expert-approved tips for maintaining healthy vision in Delhi-NCR. Use Eye Protection: When the air quality is poor, consider wearing protective eyewear, such as wrap-around goggles or safety glasses, to shield your eyes from dust and pollutants. This can prevent irritation and redness. Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality: Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home and workplace to reduce indoor air pollutants. Clean air indoors can help alleviate eye discomfort caused by external pollution. Practice the 20-20-20 Rule: If you work on a computer or stare at screens for extended periods, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on an object 20 feet away. This reduces eye strain and helps relax your eye muscles. Also read: Breathing easier! How to minimise the impact of air pollution on lung health Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: If your eyes itch or feel irritated, resist the urge to rub them. Instead, rinse your eyes with clean, cold water or use lubricating eye drops recommended by an eye specialist. Regular Eye Checkups: Schedule regular eye examinations with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to monitor your eye health. Early detection of issues like glaucoma or cataracts can lead to better treatment outcomes. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eat a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients that promote eye health, such as leafy greens, carrots, fish, and nuts. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can help reduce the risk of dry eyes. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the health of your eyes. Dry eyes can be a common issue due to the pollution and dry climate in the region. Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep your eyes moist and comfortable. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on air quality reports and pollution levels in your area. On days with poor air quality, take extra precautions to protect your eyes and overall health. Your eyes are a precious gift, and it's crucial to take steps to safeguard them, especially in places like Delhi and NCR. By following these tips and making eye care a priority, you can maintain healthy vision and enjoy clear eyesight for years to come, even in the face of environmental challenges. Remember, regular check-ups and proactive measures can go a long way in protecting your eyes from pollution-related issues. (With inputs from Dr Ajay Sharma, Chief Medical Director of Eye-Q Super Speciality Hospitals)

Clear vision amidst heavy smog: How to safeguard your eyes from severe air pollution

Glaucoma, also known as the 'silent thief of sight', is a complex eye disease that can cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, leading to irreversible vision loss and blindness. Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding this condition that can lead to confusion and a lack of proper treatment. Let's debunk the top five most common myths about glaucoma:

Glaucoma is a highly misunderstood disease, and unfortunately, many people remain unaware of their condition until it has progressed to a severe stage. While many people go for regular body check-ups, they often miss out on a routine eye check-up.

Without a timely diagnosis, glaucoma can accelerate permanent vision loss or even lead to blindness. Although treatments can slow down further vision loss, they cannot restore vision. However, with proper medication and treatment from ophthalmologists, it is possible to protect the eyes from permanent blindness.

Dr Harsh Kumar, Cataract Surgery and Glaucoma Treatment, Centre for Sight, said, "As an ophthalmologist, I strongly encourage individuals to prioritise their eye health with regular eye exams. In my practice, I have observed that one out of eight people above the age of 40 is either a glaucoma suspect or has glaucoma. All adults should undergo a comprehensive eye exam for glaucoma every 2 years. However, those over the age of 40 or with a family history of the disease should increase the frequency to every 1 to 2 years. One can suffer from irreversible sight damage if glaucoma is left untreated or diagnosed late hence the requirement of regular checks."

It is important to note that many people often confuse cataracts with glaucoma, which share some risk factors and similar symptoms. However, they have different causes, treatments, and outcomes. Glaucoma is caused by a buildup of fluid inside your eyes whereas cataracts are caused by the accumulation of broken-down proteins in your eyes. Therefore, it's important to receive a proper diagnosis from an ophthalmologist to receive the right treatment and prevent further complications.

Let's look at the top five most common myths around Glaucoma:

Glaucoma affects the elderly: While it is true that people over 60 are at a greater risk of developing open-angle glaucoma compared to people in their 40s, there are other types of glaucoma that can affect people as young as infants. Irregular ocular development, drainage blockages, and other medical conditions can all lead to the development of glaucoma. Hence, it is important for people of all ages to undergo regular eye exams to catch glaucoma early.

Glaucoma does not have treatment: It is often thought that there is no reason to undergo treatment for glaucoma if there are no symptoms. While glaucoma is not curable, it can be treated with medications, including eye drops and oral therapies. Continuous monitoring and early screening, and proper medication by ophthalmologists are essential for preventing blindness.

Excessive screen time: While prolonged screen time can cause eye strain and discomfort, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that it increases the risk of developing glaucoma. Some of the common symptoms of glaucoma include severe eye pain, blurred vision and sudden vision disturbances, and nausea.

Glaucoma can be treated with home remedies: Many of us often think that glaucoma can be prevented with natural or home remedies. While some natural remedies may be beneficial for other health issues, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that they can cure glaucoma. Proper treatment for glaucoma requires medication and monitoring by an ophthalmologist.

People with good vision do not have glaucoma: Glaucoma is often called the 'silent thief of sight' because people will not notice symptoms until the disease has reached moderate or advanced stages. Even people with perfect vision can develop glaucoma, so it's important for everyone to undergo regular eye exams for early diagnosis and treatment in the early stages.

In conclusion, debunking these common myths can help people better understand glaucoma and the importance of regular eye exams. Let's pledge to take better care of our eyes and protect them from the 'silent thief of sight.'

Glaucoma, also known as the 'silent thief of sight', is a complex eye disease that can cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, leading to irreversible vision loss and blindness.

Glaucoma, also known as the 'silent thief of sight', is a complex eye disease that can cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, leading to irreversible vision loss and blindness. Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding this condition that can lead to confusion and a lack of proper treatment. Let's debunk the top five most common myths about glaucoma: Glaucoma is a highly misunderstood disease, and unfortunately, many people remain unaware of their condition until it has progressed to a severe stage. While many people go for regular body check-ups, they often miss out on a routine eye check-up. Without a timely diagnosis, glaucoma can accelerate permanent vision loss or even lead to blindness. Although treatments can slow down further vision loss, they cannot restore vision. However, with proper medication and treatment from ophthalmologists, it is possible to protect the eyes from permanent blindness. Dr Harsh Kumar, Cataract Surgery and Glaucoma Treatment, Centre for Sight, said, "As an ophthalmologist, I strongly encourage individuals to prioritise their eye health with regular eye exams. In my practice, I have observed that one out of eight people above the age of 40 is either a glaucoma suspect or has glaucoma. All adults should undergo a comprehensive eye exam for glaucoma every 2 years. However, those over the age of 40 or with a family history of the disease should increase the frequency to every 1 to 2 years. One can suffer from irreversible sight damage if glaucoma is left untreated or diagnosed late hence the requirement of regular checks." It is important to note that many people often confuse cataracts with glaucoma, which share some risk factors and similar symptoms. However, they have different causes, treatments, and outcomes. Glaucoma is caused by a buildup of fluid inside your eyes whereas cataracts are caused by the accumulation of broken-down proteins in your eyes. Therefore, it's important to receive a proper diagnosis from an ophthalmologist to receive the right treatment and prevent further complications. Let's look at the top five most common myths around Glaucoma: Glaucoma affects the elderly: While it is true that people over 60 are at a greater risk of developing open-angle glaucoma compared to people in their 40s, there are other types of glaucoma that can affect people as young as infants. Irregular ocular development, drainage blockages, and other medical conditions can all lead to the development of glaucoma. Hence, it is important for people of all ages to undergo regular eye exams to catch glaucoma early. Glaucoma does not have treatment: It is often thought that there is no reason to undergo treatment for glaucoma if there are no symptoms. While glaucoma is not curable, it can be treated with medications, including eye drops and oral therapies. Continuous monitoring and early screening, and proper medication by ophthalmologists are essential for preventing blindness. Excessive screen time: While prolonged screen time can cause eye strain and discomfort, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that it increases the risk of developing glaucoma. Some of the common symptoms of glaucoma include severe eye pain, blurred vision and sudden vision disturbances, and nausea. Glaucoma can be treated with home remedies: Many of us often think that glaucoma can be prevented with natural or home remedies. While some natural remedies may be beneficial for other health issues, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that they can cure glaucoma. Proper treatment for glaucoma requires medication and monitoring by an ophthalmologist. People with good vision do not have glaucoma: Glaucoma is often called the 'silent thief of sight' because people will not notice symptoms until the disease has reached moderate or advanced stages. Even people with perfect vision can develop glaucoma, so it's important for everyone to undergo regular eye exams for early diagnosis and treatment in the early stages. In conclusion, debunking these common myths can help people better understand glaucoma and the importance of regular eye exams. Let's pledge to take better care of our eyes and protect them from the 'silent thief of sight.'

Debunked! Eye doctor blows the whistle on five common glaucoma myths

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