Latest news with #SharpSightEyeHospitals
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Eyelash dandruff: Why it's bad for you
Eyelash dandruff might sound unusual, but it's more common than you think. This condition can cause significant discomfort and potentially harm eye health if left untreated. Dr Chanda Gupta, Senior Consultant at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, explains that while often overlooked, eyelash dandruff is a manageable condition that deserves attention. Let's explore what it is, why it matters, and how to treat it effectively. Eyelash dandruff, medically referred to as blepharitis, occurs when dry, flaky skin develops around the eyelashes and eyelids. These flakes can range from white to yellowish and often cling to the eyelashes or fall into the eyes. According to Dr Gupta, 'Eyelash dandruff is commonly associated with underlying issues such as seborrheic dermatitis or an overgrowth of Demodex mites. These tiny, naturally occurring parasites can multiply excessively, exacerbating the condition.' While it may seem like a minor issue, eyelash dandruff can lead to significant eye problems, including: The condition often presents with these symptoms: 'If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to address them early to prevent complications,' advises Dr Gupta. Managing eyelash dandruff requires consistent hygiene practices, home remedies, and medical intervention when needed. Dr Gupta outlines effective treatments: Dr Gupta emphasises that 'maintaining good eyelid hygiene and scheduling regular eye check-ups can prevent eyelash dandruff from becoming a recurring problem.' Early intervention and proper care are crucial to maintaining eye health.
India Today
07-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
Monsoon eye care: Tips to prevent infections and protect your vision
While the rainy season brings cool relief and lush greenery, it also creates an ideal environment for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to flourish. This seasonal shift often leads to a surge in eye infections, especially in urban settings where pollution and poor drainage worsen the Today spoke with Dr Ankur Bhatnagar, Senior Consultant, Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, to get more insights on the eye risks associated with the monsoon season and how to safeguard your Ankur Bhatnagar explains, "We typically see a noticeable increase in patients with conjunctivitis, styes, and allergic eye reactions during monsoon months. The moisture in the air accelerates microbial growth, making eyes more vulnerable than usual."COMMON MONSOON-RELATED EYE INFECTIONS Several types of eye infections have become more frequent this seasonConjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Characterised by redness, watery discharge, itching, or a gritty Painful, swollen lumps near the eyelid due to blocked Reactions: Triggered by dust, mold, or pollutants in Infections: More common in people with reduced immunity or improper eye the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are especially at risk. Crowded environments like schools and public transport can speed up the spread of these EYE INFECTIONS SPIKE DURING THE MONSOONThe combination of high humidity, muddy water, and increased air pollution is a perfect storm for microbial activity. Contaminated rainwater, dirty hands, and unwashed towels are major causes. Additionally, people tend to touch their faces and eyes more often when they feel sweat or water droplets on their skin—further increasing risk. Dr Bhatnagar adds, 'Most people don't realise how easily infections spread through shared towels or contact lenses not cleaned properly. Preventive care is the best defence.'HYGIENE HABITS TO PROTECT YOUR EYESAdopting a few basic habits can dramatically reduce your chances of infectionAlways wash your hands with soap before touching your face or sharing personal items like towels, handkerchiefs, eye makeup, or contact not wear contact lenses in heavy rain, as they can trap your eyes with clean water if rainwater enters them. Avoid rubbing protective eyewear when riding a bike or walking in the rain to keep debris and water EYE IMMUNITY THROUGH DIETNutrition plays an essential role in maintaining eye healthadvertisementVitamin A, C, and E: Found in carrots, spinach, bell peppers, citrus fruits, and Fatty Acids: Present in flaxseeds, walnuts, and fish—help reduce dryness and improve tear Hydrated: Even in cool weather, drinking plenty of water helps maintain healthy tear Bhatnagar notes, 'Diet and hydration are underrated parts of eye care. What you eat can directly influence your eyes' ability to fight infections.'SLEEP AND SCREEN TIME MANAGEMENTAdequate rest is key to allowing your eyes to repair themselves. Try toGet 7–8 hours of sleep every excessive late-night screen the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce TO SEEK MEDICAL HELPNot all eye issues can be treated at home. Consult an eye doctor if you noticePersistent redness, swelling, or pain in the eyesYellow or green dischargeBlurred visionSensitivity to light'Delaying treatment for eye infections can lead to more serious complications like corneal ulcers,' warns Dr the monsoons, but don't neglect your eyes. With rising infection risks during the rainy season, preventive hygiene, protective gear, and timely medical attention are key. By staying aware and incorporating small but impactful habits, you can safeguard your vision and enjoy the rains without worry.- EndsMust Watch
India Today
02-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
Proper posture, micro-break: Preventing eye strain in the world of screens
With digital screens becoming a part of nearly every moment of daily life, especially for children, doctors and researchers throwing caution about a quiet but growing threat to our vision: digital eye strain and its potential to cause long-term Kamal B. Kapur, co-founder and medical director at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals in Delhi, says the problem isn't just how many hours children or adults are spending in front of screens, but how long the eyes are made to focus without adequate no one-size-fits-all number when it comes to screen time but any exposure beyond two hours at a stretch without a break tends to take a toll on eyes, especially for children," says Dr. Kapur. Children, he explains, often don't communicate their discomfort clearly. Instead, they rub their eyes frequently, blink excessively, or hold screens too time, these subtle cues evolve into more serious symptoms such as headaches, blurry vision, and a burning sensation in the condition, known medically as Computer Vision Syndrome or digital eye strain, is increasingly common. According to a 2022 review published in Ophthalmology and Therapy, digital eye strain affects between 25% to 93% of screen users, with children reporting similar symptoms to adults, including itching, eye fatigue, and difficulty focusing. Over time, these subtle cues evolve into more serious symptoms such as headaches, blurry vision, and a burning sensation in the eyes. () advertisementA related study in BMC Ophthalmology conducted among schoolchildren found that nearly one-third experienced regular visual discomfort during prolonged online learning sessions. These symptoms are the result of constant near-focus effort, reduced blinking, poor posture, and insufficient lighting, all factors that intensify with longer screen area of concern is the rise in childhood myopia, or near-sightedness.A meta-analysis in JAMA Network Open published this year found that every additional hour of screen time per day increased the risk of myopia by approximately 21%.Dr. Kapur notes that the developing eye needs variety and distance to grow properly. 'Constant close-up focus, like what happens with screens, doesn't allow the eye muscles to relax or shift, which over time can lead to refractive errors,' he many turn to blue light filters and night modes as a solution, Dr. Kapur points out that the science behind these solutions is still evolving.'This is one of the most common questions I get from parents: 'Do blue light filters really work?' The truth is, while they may help reduce some glare and eye strain, they are not a substitute for healthy visual habits.'Research supports his view. A 2011 study suggested that while blue light can impact melatonin production and disrupt sleep, especially in children, the content viewed and emotional stimulation from screens often play a larger role in delaying sleep Kapur stresses the importance of practical, daily habits over gimmicks. He recommends that everyone, especially children, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of screen use should be followed by 20 seconds of looking at something at least 20 feet away. Dr. Kapur notes that the developing eye needs variety and distance to grow properly. () He also advises ensuring that screens are at eye level, rooms are properly lit, and that individuals maintain good posture. Outdoor activity, he highlights, is just as important for eye development.'Natural light has a protective effect. Children who spend at least one to two hours a day outside tend to show fewer vision complaints over time," he Kapur's message is clear: don't wait for symptoms to appear before taking action. Annual eye check-ups, even in the absence of complaints, are essential for early detection and proactive is always better than dealing with correction later. A few small changes in daily routine can protect a child's vision for life," he an age where screens are unavoidable, cultivating mindful screen habits can make the difference between lifelong healthy vision and preventable problems.- Ends
Hindustan Times
18-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Toddler to teenager: Know how excessive screen time can slow children's growth and development
Childhood isn't screen-free anymore, as children of all age groups are glued to screens. They are all clocking in high screen time, whether it's a toddler watching Cocomelon or a teenager doomscrolling on social media. Every child goes through certain developmental milestones, like developing motor skills, learning to speak, making social connections and so on. But with excessive screen exposure, the process of mental and physical development may slow down or get disrupted. Dr Poonam Sidana, Director of Neonatology and Paediatrics at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, shared a detailed guide outlining the developmental impediments that may arise at different stages of childhood. The guide also highlights essential aspects such as mental health issues associated with high screen time and eye-friendly foods that should be included in the diet to protect vision: The screen-first world is taking a toll on vision, as well as mental and physical health, with kids among the most vulnerable groups. But parents can help guide them by imparting healthy digital habits, encouraging balanced screen use. Dr Rasika, Senior Consultant, Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, commented, 'Small changes can make a big difference. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: after every 20 minutes of screen use, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This gives the eye muscles a break and reduces strain. Second is to encourage kids to spend more time outdoors is another great step. Natural light and focusing on distant objects help in healthy eye development. It's also important to limit recreational screen time. Set boundaries around mobile and gaming usage, especially before bedtime. Ensure your child's study and screen setup has good lighting. Screens should be at eye level and at a safe distance (about an arm's length). Remind children to blink often and sit with good posture.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
