World Sight Day – Take Care of your Vision

13^th of October 2011 is celebrated as World Sight Day. World Sight Day (WSD) is an international day of awareness, held yearly on the second Thursday of October to focus attention on the global issue of avoidable blindness and visual impairment. 

This World Sight Day, understand the adverse effects of using electronic gadgets & devices for prolonged period.

Electronic gadgets are renowned for addicting people. Whether it’s a high tech computer or a portable gaming console, Indians have certainly pushed their technology buttons & have become gizmo freaks.

Hi- tech gadgets are flourishing by the dozens as establishments compete against each other to catch the eyes of enthusiastic gadget freaks.  Many of us use our gadgets to make this world an easier place to live. Whether its work email or just plain amusement, gadgets have become an indispensable part of our daily routine.

Though these gadgets make life stress-free, they certainly are harmful to our bodies. Modern day gadgets like laptops, smart-phones, hand held gaming consoles and computers directly affect your eye sight. Recent research shows that Electronic gadgets have ultra-violet rays which are unsafe to the eyes. Working constantly on electronic gadgets can lead to a variety of vision complaints like eye strain, redness, blurry vision etc.

Reading a book or newspaper is better because printed papers are usually high in contrast while the electric gadget deals with lesser contrast, therefore needs more visual focus and more stress to the eye.

Children who play hand held video games for long period of time without giving their eyes a break experience trouble with focusing on objects at different distances and eye irritation. It is due to the stress the eye goes through while constantly focusing on a small screen. Even the lesser contrast on the smart phone screens add to the anxiety of our vision.

So how can you avoid stressing your vision? Here are some tips on preventing vision troubles caused due to the extensive use of gadgets:

• Regularly perform eye-exercises such as Up- down eye movements and blinking. These exercises increase the blood flow & make the eye muscle strong and active to give a better vision.

• Follow the 20-20 rule i.e. take a break every 20 minutes and concentrate on the area about 20 feet away for about 20 seconds to give your eyes a rest.

• Washing the eyes frequently with cold water also helps to reduce eye strain.  If you experience severe eye strains, then consult your doctor for appropriate eye drops.

The modern electronic gadget can be a blessing if used in the right way. This World Sight Day, take a vow to rest your eyes and take proper care to reduce the hazard of vision problems.