Increasing eye problems in youthImage Credit Source: Getty Images
Eye diseases: In today’s time, cases of eye diseases are increasing continuously among the youth. This is a matter of concern because eye problems were earlier seen in older people, now they are coming up at a young age. Many research would tell that one in every five children in India are struggling with some eye problem. Rapidly changing lifestyle and increasing dependence on digital devices has made this problem more serious. If this situation continues, eye diseases can become a big health crisis for the country in the coming years. This is the reason that it has become very important to take steps on this subject in time.
The biggest reason behind eye diseases is the increasing screen time in youth. Today, smartphones, laptops and tablets have become not only education but also the main means of entertainment and social media. Online studies, web series and video games have increased the time of children and youth on screen manifold. Apart from this, the habits of playing outside are continuously decreasing, due to which the eyes do not get a chance of natural light and rest. By looking on the screen continuously, the eye muscles get tired and the problem of digital eye strain increases rapidly. Sleep is not complete, poor catering and not taking proper care of the eyes also makes this problem serious.
Which diseases of the eyes are increasing risk?
Dr. Kamal B Kapoor, Medical Director in Sharp Site Eye Hospitals, says that the risk of eye related diseases among the youth, which is the highest increasing, has digital eye strain, eye dryness, headache, redness of the eyes, redness and staining. Earlier, the problems that people used to face after the age of 35 to 40 years, now they are becoming common among children and college going students. Myopia means close glasses are also growing rapidly and many children are being forced to apply glasses at an early age.
The biggest danger is to those children and youth who keep watching on screen continuously for a long time and whose lifestyle lacks physical activity. Studying in weak light, waking up till late night and lack of healthy diet also increases this danger. If this situation persists, then eye problems in future can become a big public health concern.
How to rescue
See 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
Limit the screen time of children and youth.
Get enough sleep and make a habit of sleeping on time.
Eat a diet containing green vegetables, fruits and vitamin-A.
Make the habit of spending time in sports and natural lights outside.
If there is persistent irritation, blurring or headache in the eyes, contact the doctor immediately.