As our children grow from newborns to crawlers to walkers and beyond, it's easy to take for granted the important role their eyes play in all they do. "Vision is fundamental for so many aspects of learning, from recognizing faces and shapes to reading, and from birth until 7 to 10 years old is a critical time for developing vision," says Laura K. Green, M.D., a cornea specialist and comprehensive ophthalmologist at the Krieger Eye Institute and director of the ophthalmology residency program at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore. "Just like children have to learn to pick up a spoon and get it to their mouth, through early childhood they are building connections between the eyes and the brain and the brain is learning how to see." For that reason, recognizing and treating eye problems promptly is a key part of keeping your child thriving. Read on to learn about some common eye problems in children and what you can do to keep your little one's baby blues--or browns, hazels, or greens--in top shape.
Refractive Error
"The most common reason to go to the eye doctor is the need for glasses," says David L. Rogers, M.D., clinical assistant professor of ophthalmology at The Ohio State University, director of research in the department of ophthalmology at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and a member of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS). Glasses help to correct refractive errors, which are vision problems that occur when the shape of the eye prevents you from focusing well, according to the National Institutes of Health's National Eye Institute (NEI). Refractive errors in children include myopia (also called nearsightedness), which is difficulty seeing things that are far away, hyperopia (farsightedness), or trouble seeing things close by, and astigmatism, distorted vision caused by an irregularly shaped cornea. The most common symptom of these conditions is blurred vision, says the NEI. Other red flags: double vision, haziness, glare or halos around bright lights, squinting, headaches, or eye strain. Talk to your child's pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Amblyopia
Amblyopia, also known as "lazy eye," is a condition in which the vision in one eye is compromised because the eye and the brain are not working together properly. The brain doesn't want to see double, explains Dr. Green, so if one eye doesn't see well, the brain will block the blurrier image. "Over time, if not treated before the age of 7 to 10 years, one eye's images will be blocked out permanently," she says. Amblyopia can be caused by strabismus (misaligned eyes), different prescriptions in each eye (for example, one eye might be more nearsighted than the other), or issues such as cataracts or a droopy eyelid. Some of the causes of amblyopia are visible--misaligned eyes, for example--but others aren't, which means you might not realize anything is wrong with your child's eyes. Routine vision screenings at your child's well visits can pick up problems. Treatment for amblyopia typically involves addressing the issue that's causing poor vision in one eye as well as forcing your child to use that weaker eye. This is often done by patching or blurring the stronger eye with eye drops or the prescription in glasses. The earlier treatment begins, the better.
Strabismus
Strabismus is a condition in which the eyes are misaligned--one may turn in, out, up or down--and therefore don't focus on the same point at the same time. You may hear the terms "crossed eyes" or "wandering eye" used to describe this condition. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), strabismus affects approximately 4 percent of children in this country. Strabismus can be a precursor to amblyopia because when the eyes are focused in different directions, the brain may "turn off" the misaligned eye. Over time, the ignored eye can lose vision. The treatment for strabismus can include glasses, eye exercises, and/or eye surgery.
Conjunctivitis
Commonly referred to as "pinkeye," conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the thin lining of tissue inside the eyelid and over the white part of the eye. It is caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens (say, mold or pet dander), or irritants such as swimming pool chlorine or smog, says the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Symptoms include redness or swelling of the white part of the eye or inside the eyelid, tearing, eye discharge (which can be white, yellow, or green), itchy or burning sensations, increased sensitivity to light, a gritty feeling in the eye, and crust on the eyelids or lashes. Pinkeye caused by bacteria is usually treated with antibiotic eye drops or eye ointment. If the pinkeye is viral, it just has to run its course, which typically takes seven to 14 days. Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious so make sure your child doesn't share towels, sheets or pillows with anyone else in the family, and encourage everyone to be extra careful about hand washing.
Styes
A stye is a tender, red bump that pops up when an oil gland on the eyelid becomes blocked. While the bump is usually the most obvious symptom, your child may also feel that his eye is more sensitive to light than normal, tears more than usual, is sore, or feels like there's something in it. Styes can usually be treated at home by applying a warm, wet compress to the area for ten minutes several times a day. This can help coax the gland to open and release the fluid (usually excess oil) that's clogging it. Never try to pop or burst a stye. You should call the doctor if the stye gets progressively larger or doesn't show signs of improvement within a few days, says Dr. Rogers.
Blocked Tear Duct
One in ten babies is born with a blocked tear duct, according to the AAP. "We commonly see blocked tear ducts in children under 1 year old. Often, a parent will notice that one eye is always tearing and so she'll bring the child in," says Lauren S. Blieden, M.D., an ophthalmologist at the Robert Cizik Eye Clinic and assistant clinical professor at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. "We usually just watch it, because the vast majority of times a blocked tear duct opens on its own as the child's face grows and his anatomy matures." In the meantime, your child's doctor may recommend that you gently massage the inner corner of the eye twice a day to encourage the duct to open if a mild infection occurs. If the blocked duct doesn't resolve itself by the time your child is 12 months old, an ophthalmologist can perform a relatively simple procedure to unblock it.
Spotting Eye Problems in Kids
"Parents are the first line of defense against developmental eye issues," says Dr. Green. "If you notice something unusual, bring your child in for an eye exam, ideally with a pediatric ophthalmologist." Some red flags to look out for include:
-An eye (or eyes) that turns in or out. (The exception: If a child is under 4 months old it's normal for the eyes to sometimes turn in or out, says Dr. Blieden.) You might notice this in person or only in pictures. "A mild crossing of the eyes might only be apparent in photos and not when your child is in front of you moving and looking around," says Dr. Green.
-Pupils that appear different from each other. Both pupils should be the same size.
-A child who always holds her head in a certain position so she can see better.
-Uneven red reflex. When looking at the latest photos of your kids, check out their eyes. "The red eyes that you see in photos should both look the same," says Dr. Blieden. "If one eye looks different in more than just one photo then that's a reason to see an ophthalmologist more urgently."
While it's important to be alert to any abnormalities, not all eye problems are visible to parents. For that reason, regular vision screenings are essential. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends eye exams for newborns, infants between six months and one year, preschoolers and school age children. "Your child's pediatrician can do the exam and if she finds something worrisome then your child should see an ophthalmologist," says Dr. Blieden.
A final word of eye advice: Have your child wear safety glasses when participating in sports like baseball and basketball, says Dr. Blieden. It's an underused but important way to protect your child's precious peepers.
Copyright © 2013 Meredith Corporation.
All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.
Image: jeniffertn-243408/Pixabay
SOURCE: Parents.com
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| Image: Shutterstock |
Earlier this year, a group of researchers discovered that we parents heap way more resources, love, and time on our firstborn. But it turns out all that extra TLC may have a downside (well, besides shortchanging subsequent kids): It could impact your child's vision.
According to a new study published last week in JAMA Ophthalmology, firstborn kids are more likely to be near-sighted, or myopic, than their younger siblings. This may be due, in part, to the added attention parents tend to give that child's education. Reading books together indoors or letting your child play educational apps on the iPad may be great for their intelligence, but such intense, close visual activities can overtax the eyes and lead to myopia, experts say. (Genetics also play a role.)
The study analyzed 89,120 UK Biobank participants. All were white, between the ages of 40 and 69, and had no history of eye disorders. Researchers asked for their birth order and highest level of education they attained. Adjusting for age, sex, and education, the scientists determined that firstborns were 10 percent more likely to be myopic or about 20 percent more likely to have more severe myopia than later-born siblings.
These findings echo previous work that linked birth order and near-sightedness.
If you haven't given your baby's vision much thought, you may want to start. Myopia tends to crop up when kids are school-aged, according to the American Optometric Association. Nearly 30 percent of the U.S. population is near-sighted—up nearly 20 percent since the 1970s—and that number is expected to climb even more. Researchers at the Brien Holden Vision Institute recently estimated that up to 5 billion people worldwide will be myopic by 2050, and nearly 1 billion people with severe myopia are at risk of going blind. Gulp.
Luckily, there are some steps you can take to protect your baby's peepers for the long haul. Experts recommend having their eyes checked regularly, limiting their screen time, and encouraging them to get outdoors more.
SOURCE: Parents.com
Also known as amblyopia, lazy eye is a common eye problem in children--but it's not so easy to recognize. Read on for the best ways to identify and treat it.
Most parents have heard the term "lazy eye" but might not know that it refers to a common eye condition in children called amblyopia. "Amblyopia is poor vision in an eye that is otherwise normal," says David L. Rogers, M.D., clinical assistant professor of ophthalmology at The Ohio State University, director of research in the department of ophthalmology at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and a member of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS). "In other words, the eye is healthy but it just doesn't see well."
Amblyopia affects two to three percent of people and it's the most common cause of visual impairment in kids. In fact, it's so common that it's responsible for more vision loss in children than all other causes combined, says the AAPOS. Here's what happens: In order to have normal vision, our eyes and brain need to work together properly. When one eye doesn't see well for some reason (more on that later), the brain begins to favor the stronger eye and essentially ignore images coming in from the weaker eye. Over time, vision in the weaker eye can become
permanently lost.
What Causes It?
There are three main causes of amblyopia, says Dr. Rogers. One cause is strabismus, or misalignment of the eyes. This condition can be visible as an eye that "wanders" or turns in, out, up, or down. When an eye isn't straight, it essentially gets turned off and doesn't develop good vision. Another type is anisometropic, or refractive, amblyopia, which occurs when one eye has a different prescription than the other. For example, one eye may be more nearsighted or farsighted than the other. Typically, the brain will rely on the eye with better vision and ignore the other eye. The third major cause is an eye disease such as a cataract, which causes cloudy vision in the affected eye or a condition such as ptosis (a droopy eyelid). Again, the brain will favor the stronger eye and ignore the weaker one. In this case, the one with the cataract or droopy eyelid.
How Can You Tell If Your Child Has It?
One of the tricky things about amblyopia is that there may not be any outward signs that a child has it. "Unless amblyopia is associated with misalignment of the eyes--a wandering eye is visible, for example--or a droopy eyelid, it may not be noticeable at all," says Dr. Rogers. "Most children with poor vision in one or even both eyes may act normal. To children, the way they see is normal so if they see things blurry, they assume everyone else does, too." For this reason, amblyopia is usually discovered through the vision screenings that are done at routine pediatrician checkups and/or in school. If your pediatrician or school nurse detects a problem during a screening, your child will be referred to an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam. Parents should also bring their child to the eye doctor if they notice that their child has poor vision in one or both eyes, tends to squint, tilt his head, or close one eye to see, is poor at judging distance between objects (depth perception), or complains of headaches, as these could all be signs of amblyopia.
How Is It Treated?
Early treatment for amblyopia is key to developing normal vision. According to AAO, the best time to address the condition is during infancy or early childhood. There are two main goals with treatment: One is to treat the issue with the weaker eye. For example, by removing a cataract, surgically correcting a misaligned eye, or prescribing glasses to improve vision in the case of refractive amblyopia. The other is to strengthen the weak eye by forcing the child to use it. This is often accomplished by patching the dominant eye or by blurring vision in the stronger eye (blurring can be done with eye drops or the prescription in eyeglasses). This treatment can take weeks or months, and the earlier your child's amblyopia is addressed, the better her chances are for successful treatment.
Copyright © 2013 Meredith Corporation.
All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.
SOURCE: Parents.com
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| Photo: Getty Images |
It's time to get wise about your eyes: Redness, itching, watering, grittiness...whatever your symptom is, we have solutions to help you see clearly again.
Whether you look like you pulled the world's longest all-nighter or feel so itchy you want to claw your eyeballs out, you shouldn't just slap on a pair of sunglasses and ignore it. Treating eye issues properly can help you avoid complications, says Stephanie J. Marioneaux, MD, spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology with a clinical practice in Chesapeake, Va. "Especially if you have pain, a change in vision, discharge, light sensitivity or any symptoms that persist, it could be a sign of a serious problem, and you should see an ophthalmologist," she says. Decode your eye problem with this guide.
Your symptoms:
Red eyes
Both eyes are itchy and watery
It's probably allergies, aka allergic conjunctivitis—a reaction to pollen, pet dander, or something else in your environment. Get away from the trigger if possible, whether it's a fluffy cat, a dusty attic or a park full of ragweed. Then take an oral antihistamine to halt the immune system reaction, says Tim Mainardi, MD, an allergist with New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City. Over-the-counter allergy drops may calm inflammation and soothe itchiness directly. You can also ask your eye doc about prescription drops. Skip anti-redness drops; they don't treat the root cause and can lead to rebound redness. If allergies are a seasonal nuisance for you or create major discomfort, see an allergist for additional treatment.
Your symptoms:
Red eyes
Discharge that's thick and crusty (along with itching)
You might have conjunctivitis—inflammation from an infection of the outer layer of your eye. Your primary care doc can do a culture to see if it's viral or bacterial. The viral variety is "like a common cold in the eye" and is extremely contagious, says Dr. Marioneaux. Individual vials of artificial tears and cold packs will help relieve irritation and swelling. A mild case of bacterial conjunctivitis may go away on its own, but your doctor may also prescribe antibiotic eye drops to speed things up. Dial an ophthalmologist if fluids are draining from your eye or if you have moderate to severe pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision or intense redness.
Your symptoms:
A painful lump at the edge of one eye or under your eyelid
If it's at the edge of your lid, that pimple-like bump might be a sty. Sties are caused by an infected eyelash follicle; they can get tender and swollen and may ooze pus. Use a warm washcloth to encourage drainage; if it's really bothersome or painful, or if it doesn't improve with home treatment, see your eye doctor, who can prescribe an antibiotic ointment. A chalazion results from a clogged oil gland under the eyelid, farther from the lashes. "You can feel the bump sticking out through the lid," says Dr. Marioneaux. Warm compresses are also the first line of treatment here. If a sty or chalazion hardens and persists, an ophthalmologist can drain it or inject it with a steroid to bring down swelling.
Your symptoms:
Red eyes
A gritty, sandy feeling
It could be dry eye, a condition in which the eyes aren't getting enough moisture because you're not making enough tears, your tears aren't watery enough and/or they're evaporating too quickly, which can happen when oil-producing glands in your eyelids are inflamed. Staring at screens without blinking regularly is a culprit. "If you're not blinking every four seconds, oil doesn't get released and tears evaporate, leaving the eye dry and irritated," says Dr. Marioneaux. "If your eyes water out of nowhere, that's emergency tears coming to the rescue." Dry eye can also be a side effect of some medications or the result of hormonal fluctuations or long-term use of contact lenses. Steer clear of air-conditioning or forced-air heat, which may hasten tear evaporation; take breaks from intense staring, and dampen eyes with artificial tears. You can also try adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet (good sources are fatty fish, like salmon) and using a humidifier to moisten the air. More severe cases may require a prescription ointment, Rx eye drops or plugs placed in the eye's drainage ducts to hold tears in your eyes longer. Don't ignore dry eye, because it could lead to scarring of the cornea and vision loss.
Your symptoms:
Red eyes
A gritty, sandy feeling
Eye is red and/or irritated along the lash line specifically
It might be blepharitis, a chronic condition in which oil glands along the lash line become clogged. Treat it daily for best results. "Warm compresses increase blood flow and loosen the oil to help unclog the glands," says Payal Patel, MD, a clinical instructor in the department of ophthalmology at NYU Langone Medical Center, who recommends applying a warm washcloth to the eyelid for one to two minutes three or four times a day. You can also clean the eyelids by gently massaging the lash line with tear-free shampoo on a clean fingertip, washcloth or Q-tip. Use artificial tears to ease irritation or burning during the day.
Your symptoms:
Red eyes
Persistent blurred vision or a sharp pain after a blow to the eye or getting a foreign object stuck in your eye
You could have a scratched cornea (the layer covering the front of your eye). See your eye doctor ASAP or go to an ER or urgent care center anytime you suspect a corneal abrasion.
Your symptoms:
Red eyes
They're not itchy/watery, you don't have any discharge or a gritty feeling, there's no painful lump at the edge of one eye and you do not have persistent blurred vision or a sharp pain after a blow to the eye
Any eye symptoms that don't clear up warrant a call to your ophthalmologist.
SOURCE: Health.com
Cucumber comprises many essential vitamins and minerals, enough to give you your daily dose of goodness. It contains Thiamine, riboflavin, Vitamin B6 and minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are responsible for various body functions, including healthy vision. It is considered as one of the most effective beauty ingredient for taking care of the eyes. Cucumber has an anti-inflammatory effect that helps in reducing puffiness. The high water content helps in hydrating the skin and the cool temperature decreases the flow of blood to the space around your eyes. Together they can soothe the skin around your eyes and alleviate swelling.You must have heard and seen many people putting cucumber slices on their eyes. It is a very common practice but a great one to instantly rejuvenate yourself and bring relief to tired eyes.
Here are some benefits of using cucumber on the eyes:
1. Controls Puffiness
Cucumber has ascorbic and caffeic acid, which helps bring down the water retention rate, diminishing the swelling and puffiness around the eyes. Cut cucumber slices and refrigerate it for a while. It will help you relax and hydrate your eyes.
2. Fights Cellulite
Cucumber juice contains phytochemicals that aid in the production of collagen. Collagen is a fiber like protein responsible for skin elasticity and removes cellulite.
3. Reduces Dark Circles
The presence of antioxidants and silica in cucumber can help slow down dark circles. Though it is not a permanent solution to dark circles, it helps in lightening the skin around the eyes. The skin around our eyes is often discoloured. Cucumber helps in treating this and brings back the lost beauty on our faces.
4. Reduces Eye Wrinkles
Cucumber plays the role of a natural moisturiser. The skin around the eyes is the thinnest in our body. Placing cucumber slices on the eyes helps in hydrating your eyes and the skin around. This in turn helps in reducing lines and wrinkles. Cucumber can indeed be called an eye moisturiser.
5. Reduces Under Eye Bags
Cucumber also helps in toning down under eye bags. Take some cold cucumber and grind it to make a paste. Add either lavender oil or chamomile oil to it along with some honey. Blend it well in order to make a fine paste. Apply it under your eyes using your fingers lightly. Leave this for 10-15 minutes and wipe it later with a damp cloth. This will aid in reducing under eye bags.
Disclaimer:
The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same
SOURCE: NDTV
Contact lenses have made life easier for many. But every good thing comes with a cost and contact lenses are not an exception.
When you take your contact lenses lightly, you end up making several common mistakes that could be hurting your eyes.
According to a 2015 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost all of the 41 million estimated contact lens wearers in the U.S. may be practicing at least one behavior known to increase their risk of eye infections.
The report also pointed out that nearly one-third of contact lens wearers who participated in a national survey reported going to the doctor for red or painful eyes related to wearing contact lenses.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has several safety recommendations for people who wear contact lenses.
For all contact lenses users, it is important to have knowledge about the safety measures and also what common mistakes you may be making. This will help you avoid mistakes in the future and protect your vision.
Here are the common mistakes people make with contact lenses that could damage your eyes.
1. Wearing Contacts for Too Long
Wearing contacts for too long is bad for your vision health. It can lead to permanent scarring and even loss of vision.
Contacts sit on top of your corneas, which do not have blood vessels to bring oxygen to them. It is the tears that do this important job. But tears cannot reach your corneas while you’re wearing contacts, as they act as a shield. By removing your contacts from time to time, you allow oxygen to reach the corneas.
Prolonged wearing of contacts also make your corneas more vulnerable to germs.
No matter what type of contacts you have, avoid wearing them too long. This is a simple and effective way to reduce your risk for infection.
2. Sleeping in Your Contacts
The habit of sleeping with your contacts in your eyes is another big mistake people often make.
It is not at all safe to sleep with your contacts in. Extended wear deprives the corneas of oxygen, which can lead to irritation and discomfort, and even a serious infection. In fact, it is common for users who sleep with their lenses in to wake up with dry eyes and blurry vision.
Plus, you can even lose a contact lens in the back of your eye because of movement when you sleep.
A 2009 study published in the Journal of Optometry found that sleeping in contacts was the probable main cause of microbial keratitis.
A 2015 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 25 percent of eye infections are due to modifiable risk factors. Among these factors, one was occasionally sleeping in contacts.
3. Wearing Your Contacts in Water
Whether it’s the swimming pool, a hot tub or the shower, exposing your contacts to any kind of water is something you should avoid at any cost.
Water is a breeding ground for different types of bacteria and other harmful pathogens that can lead to eye infections. In severe cases, it can even lead to vision loss.
Also, exposure to water can dehydrate your contacts.
You should remove your contact lenses before going in any water. Also, you must never store your contacts in water. Always use sterile saline solution recommended by your doctor.
4. Using Tap Water to Clean Contacts
Using tap water to clean your contacts is another big mistake that most users make.
ap water is not sterile and cleaning your contacts in it can lead to bacteria and other harmful pathogens clinging on the lenses. In fact, tap water is known to contain an amoeba that can cause Acanthamoeba keratitis, a hard-to-treat eye infection.
Also, by avoiding rinsing your lenses in tap water, you will prevent your corneas from getting inflamed or scarred, which can impair vision.
Always wash your contacts in appropriate solution that is recommended by your eye doctor. It is best to always carry contact-friendly eye drops or a travel-sized contact lens solution with you.
5. Wearing Your Contacts Past the Expiration Date
Everything comes with an expiration date, including your contact lenses.
Old, expired lenses become a breeding ground for germs. With use, they also accumulate a buildup of proteins and other residue. Wearing such lenses can be uncomfortable, or worse, it can lead to infection.
Never risk your eye health to prolong the use of a pair of contacts. By wearing old contact lenses, you are not saving money, instead you are calling for expensive medical bills.
6. Handling Lenses with Unclean Hands
Contact lens wearers often forget to wash their hands before handling the lenses. To avoid getting germs into your eyes, it is imperative that you wash your hands thoroughly before touching your contact lenses, even the case.
Always wash your hands with soap and warm water before handling your contact lenses.
Also, make sure you dry your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses because the microbes that cause eye infections are present in water as well.
7. Wearing Contacts even When Your Eyes Hurt
Make sure to immediately take off your lenses if you notice symptoms like redness, itching, swelling and burning in the eyes.
Do not, in any case, suffer through the discomfort wearing your lenses and risk developing an infection.
At times, your eyes may be hurting due to something wrong in the lenses. Remove your contacts immediately and inspect them carefully for any signs of chips or tearing. If there is still any part of your lenses remaining in your, see an optometrist right away.
8. Improper Care of Contact Lenses and Storage Cases
Both your contact lenses and storage case need proper care and handling.
In fact, one of the biggest mistakes that contact lens users make is that they don’t diligently follow the instructions on handling contacts and cases.
Not following proper care and safety measures puts you at a higher risk of damaging your lenses, or even worse, making yourself vulnerable to serious eye infections.
- Clean your contact lenses with the recommended solution daily. Always wash your hands before handling your contacts. After cleaning, store them in a case with fresh solution.
- Disinfecting the storage case is also very important, as harmful organisms can grow in the case. Putting your cleaned contact lenses in a dirty case is something you should avoid. Clean your storage case with a sterile solution recommended by your eye doctor. Dry it with a clean, lint-free towel or let it air-dry before using it again.
- Contact lens cases should be replaced at least every three months.
9. Mixing Fresh Solution with the Used One in the Case
This is another common mistake that contact lens wearers make. People often “top off” or mix fresh contact lens solution with old or used solution in the case for ease.
However, this is an unhealthy practice as it causes the disinfectant to lose its effectiveness. This in turn increases your chances of developing an eye infection.
Always replace the solution instead of topping it off. In fact, you also need to rinse it with the fresh solution and dry the case with a fresh tissue or else there will be a buildup of biofilm at the bottom.
10. Avoiding Eye Checkups
Whether you wear contacts or glasses, it is important to get regular eye checkups.
Also, if you are experiencing any kind of discomfort with your eyes, even if it seems small, it’s important to consult your eye doctor as soon as possible.
Problems are easier to treat at the initial stage. The longer it goes on, the harder it is to treat.
So, if you have redness, burning, blurred vision or pain in your eyes, especially after using contact lenses, never ignore it and make an appointment quickly,
Also, it is vital for the health and safety of your vision to be checked regularly for updated types of lens, fit and prescription.
Tips for contact lens users
- Always remove your contacts before sleeping, showering or swimming.
- Rub and rinse your contacts in disinfecting solution each time you remove them.
- Wash and rinse the case with contact lens solution after each use.
- Always carry a backup pair of glasses, in case you have to take out your contact lenses.
- You should always put your makeup on after inserting your contacts.
- Avoid using eye makeup remover or even facial cleanser while your contacts are in.
- Avoid wearing your contacts when your eyes are visibly irritated.
- Do not rub your eyes while you are wearing your lenses, as it can cause tears in your cornea.
- Visit your eye doctor every year.
- Buy your contact lenses from a trusted source.
- Never share contact lenses with another person.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2015/p0820-contact-lens.html
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/contact-lens-care
http://www.journalofoptometry.org/en/how-could-contact-lens-wearers/articulo/S1888429609700251/
http://avehjournal.org/index.php/aveh/article/view/186
http://www.nejm.org/doi/pdf/10.1056/NEJM198909213211202
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/014067369191231I
http://www.contactlensjournal.com/article/S1367-0484(11)00041-5/abstract
https://www.epa.gov/dwstandardsregulations/danger-using-tap-water-contact-lenses
SOURCE: Top10homeremedies
Does your child have red or pink eyes? Are they swollen and is there a watery discharge? Take note, your child may be suffering from conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin and transparent layer of tissue lining the white part of the eyes. This is usually a result of a bacterial or viral infection or an allergic reaction. It may also occur due to pollen, dust or smoke causing irritation in the eyes.
It is one of the most common eye infections that can affect both children and adults equally. It can occur in one or both eyes.
Some common symptoms of conjunctivitis in children are redness in the whites of the eye, redness on the lower rim of the eyelid, inflammation of the eye and a watery discharge. It can also cause mild pain in the eye in the early stage, which becomes severe with passing hours and is accompanied by soreness, itching and a burning sensation.
The condition can be alarming, due to the redness in the eyes. This infection spreads quite fast and can cause a child to miss school for several days. However, as bad as it looks, it does not cause any vision damage.
In most cases, the infection clears up within five to seven days without medical treatment. However, if the symptoms become too discomforting, medical care may be needed. Moreover, chronic conjunctivitis may lead to permanent eye damage.
In the meantime, you can use natural remedies to ease the symptoms as well as speed up healing of the infection.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for conjunctivitis (pink eye) in children.
1. Cold Compress
A cold compress is one of the best remedies for pink eye. It will ease the itching and swelling, and make your child more comfortable until the infection is gone.
- Soak a clean, lint-free cloth in cool water, and wring out the excess water. (Use 2 clothes if both eyes are infected.)
- Gently press it over your child’s closed eyelid for a few minutes.
- Do it several times a day.
2. Warm Compress
You can also use a warm compress to help relieve conjunctivitis. It is effective in reducing pain and inflammation in the eyes as well as clearing discharge temporarily.
Warm compresses are also soothing to the eyes and are particularly beneficial for bacterial or viral conjunctivitis.
- Soak a clean, lint-free cloth in lukewarm water, and wring out the excess liquid. (Use 2 clothes if both eyes are affected.)
- Press it gently over the closed eyelid of the affected eye for several minutes.
- Repeat 3 or 4 times a day.
- You can also use warm water to gently clean from the inner to the outer edge of the eye to remove any discharge or crusting.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is one of best cures for pink eye. Its antimicrobial properties help fight bacterial infections, one of the key causes of pink eye.
- Add ¼ teaspoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to ½ cup of boiled and cooled water.
- Dip a cotton ball in this solution and apply the solution to the infected eye. (Use 2 cotton balls if both eyes are infected.)
- Also, wipe the outer eye with the cotton ball.
- Do this every few hours for 2 to 3 days.
- Note: The solution may sting a bit but only temporarily.
4. Breast Milk
Breast milk is known to be the most perfect food for newborns and can also help fight an eye infection.
It contains many antibodies, particularly immunoglobulin E that combats and cures conjunctivitis resulting from an allergic reaction.
Put a few drops of breast milk in the affected eye, using a sterilized dropper.
Repeat 3 or 4 times a day until the infection is cured.
5. Colloidal Silver
Colloidal silver is another popular and very effective remedy for eye infections, including pink eye. It helps fight bacterial as well viral infections.
- Put 2 drops of colloidal silver in your infected eye and blink a little so it gets to the eyelash roots.
- Use it 2 times daily for up to 2 days.
- Note: Do not put colloidal silver in your eyes for more than 2 days.
6. Black Tea
Black tea is another excellent remedy for pink eye. The tannins in black tea help reduce itching and inflammation. Also, it can combat viral and bacterial infections, thus speeding up the healing process.
- Steep a black tea bag in lukewarm water. (Use 2 tea bags if both eyes are infected.)
- Set it aside until it cools.
- Place it over the infected eye for about 15 minutes.
- Repeat at hourly intervals to fight inflammation.
- Alternatively, for older children, you can help them wash their eyes with a weak solution of black tea.
7. Boric Acid
Boric acid works for all kinds of eye infections, including pink eye. It has mild antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help deal with the cause of the problem.
It’s also effective in reducing symptoms like redness, dryness, a burning sensation and watery discharge.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of pharmaceutical-grade boric acid in 1 cup of boiled filtered water. When cool, pour the solution in a sterilized glass dropper bottle. Put 2 drops in each eye, 4 times a day for about a week.
- Another option is to dip a cotton ball in the prepared solution, then dab the infected eye at each corner with it. Do this 2 or 3 times a day using a clean cotton ball each time and for each eye.You can also use green tea and chamomile tea in the same manner to treat pink eye.
8. Saline Wash
A saline wash is also very beneficial in the treatment of conjunctivitis. It works as a mild, natural antiseptic and cleansing agent, and helps keep the eyes free from crusting and watery discharge.
- Mix ½ teaspoon of sea salt in 1 cup of distilled water, and bring it to a boil.
- Allow the solution to cool down completely.
- Use it as eyewash, using an eyecup or dropper to assist the process.
- Do it 2 or 3 times a day for a couple of days.
9. Activated Charcoal Powder
Whether you suffer from irritated eyes or pink eye, activated charcoal can provide instant relief from the discomforts.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of activated charcoal powder in ½ cup of filtered water. Strain the mixture through a coffee filter. Put 2 or 3 drops of the filtered gray water in the affected eye several times a day.
- Alternatively, mix 1/8 teaspoon of activated charcoal powder into ½ cup of distilled water. Dip a cotton swab in the mixture and use it to clean the infected eye. Use 2 cotton swabs if you need to clean both eyes. Repeat several times a day.
10. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a good remedy for unblocking the blocked tear ducts due to conjunctivitis. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help fight the inflammation.
- Warm up some extra-virgin coconut oil.
- Use the warm oil to gently massage between the eye and nasal area.
- Do it several times a day.
- You can also apply coconut oil on the eyelids to prevent crusts from forming due to the discharge from the eyes.
Note: Always wash your hands thoroughly after each treatment to prevent spreading the infection.
Additional Tips
When cleaning the eyes, wipe from the inside (next to the nose) toward the outside.
- Wash your hands often and thoroughly with warm water and soap after you touch your child’s affected eye. Use disposable paper towels to dry your hands to reduce the risk of spreading the infection to other family members.
- Avoid sharing anything that could have touched the infected eye, such as eye drops, towels and even pillowcases.
- Anything worn or used by a child who has pink eye, such as clothing, towels or bedding, should be washed separately in hot water.
- If the pink eye affects only one eye, don’t touch both eyes with the same cloth, cotton swab or any other item used in home treatment.
- Use only clean towels and washcloths.
- Avoid sending your child for swimming in a swimming pool.
- Do not send children to school or other public areas, as the infection is contagious.
- If your child wears contact lenses, stop the use of the lenses until the infection clears.
SOURCES:
http://bjo.bmj.com/content/early/2012/12/24/bjophthalmol-2012-302833
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/conjunctivitis
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/pink-eye-conjunctivitis-parents-quick-guide
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1197/j.aem.2006.08.006/pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/conjunctivitis/newborns.html
top10homeremedies
10 Ways to Get Rid of Your Puffy Eyes
Waking up with puffy eyes can be really frustrating when you have a big day ahead. Puffy eyes are one of the most common beauty problems.
This occurs when the eyes begin to swell for various reasons, including excessive crying, excessive physical stress, genetics, dermatitis, hormonal changes in the body, a change in weather, sinus problems, hangovers, bad diet, lack of sleep and some allergic reaction.
Puffy eyes can make you look tired and ill. But you can easily take care of them with some simple, natural home remedies.
Here are the top 10 ways to get rid of puffy eyes.
1. Water
The easiest way to get rid of puffy eyes is to drink water. When the body is well hydrated, there is less chance of water retention that can cause your under-eye area and other parts of your body to swell. Water also helps flush toxins out of the body.
To stay well hydrated, drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water each day. In addition to this, you must reduce the amount of salt you eat to reduce water retention in the body. Also, avoid caffeinated and carbonated beverages that can be dehydrating.
2. Cold Spoons
This simple home remedy is surprisingly very effective. It will help tighten up the skin around your eyes as well as relax the blood vessels, thus offering relief to puffy and tired eyes.
- Chill 5 or 6 metal spoons in your refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Hold the rounded portion of one of the cold spoons against your eye for a few minutes until the spoon becomes warm.
- As the spoon warms, replace it with another cold one from the refrigerator.
3. Tea Bags
Be it green tea bags or black tea bags, both can help soothe puffy and irritated eyes. They contain anti-irritant properties that help reduce swelling around your eyes. They can also relieve redness and inflammation.
- Soak 2 teabags in hot water for a few minutes, then take them out and let them cool down.
- Lie down, put the tea bags over your eyelids and cover them with a soft cloth.
- Leave them in place for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Repeat a few times a day.
4. Cucumbers
Chilled cucumbers make a good remedy for treating puffy eyes. The enzymes and the astringent properties in cucumbers help reduce inflammation and help tighten the skin. This remedy will also help get rid of wrinkles and dark circles around your eyes.
- Cut a cucumber into thick slices.
- Chill the slices in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
- Place the cold slices on your eyelids for about 10 minutes or until they become warm.
- Repeat the process several times a day.
5. Egg Whites
Egg whites have skin-tightening properties that can help banish under-eye bags as well as help prevent wrinkles.
- Separate the yolks from 2 eggs and put the whites in a bowl.
- Whip the egg whites thoroughly until you get a stiff consistency.
- Add a few drops of witch hazel, a natural skin-tightening astringent.
- Use a brush or soft cloth to apply this mixture under your eyes and allow it to dry.
- Leave it on for about 15 minutes.
- Do this daily for a few days.
6. Potatoes
Just like cucumbers, potatoes are also effective in getting rid of puffy eyes. The starch present in potatoes has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce under-eye bags. This remedy is also helpful for fading dark circles under eyes.
- Peel, wash and dry a medium-size potato.
- Grate the potato and put the shavings in a clean cloth and tie it up.
- Place this cloth over your eyelids for several minutes.
- Repeat the process several times until the puffiness subsides.
7. Cold Water
If you have a sleepless night and are left with puffy eyes, cold water is just what you need to treat them. The cold will help constrict the blood vessels and lessen swelling.
- Rinse your face with several splashes of ice-cold water. Do this a few times throughout the day as needed.
- You can also use a small bag filled with ice, wrap it in a washcloth and place it on your eyes. Repeat as necessary until the swelling is gone.
8. Salt Water
Hot water and salt also works as a simple remedy to help reduce swelling and puffiness under your eyes. The salt water help get rid of the fluid retention in a way similar to osmosis.
- Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a bowl containing a quart (4 cups) of water. Make sure the water is not too hot.
- Soak cotton balls or wool eye pads in this warm saline water and place them over your eyelids for a few minutes.
- Repeat the process for 15 to 20 minutes.
9. Strawberries
The alpha hydroxy acid present in strawberries can help make skin look smooth and young. It also helps reduce under-eye puffiness and swelling.
- Chill some strawberries in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Remove the tops and slice them into thick pieces.
- Lie down and place the slices under your eyes for several minutes.
10. Aloe Vera
The antioxidants and vitamin E present in aloe vera are effective in reducing puffiness around the eyes and also keep wrinkles and fine lines at bay.
Applying aloe vera gel on the area under your eyes will improve blood circulation and flush out the fluids around the eyes, thus reducing swelling.
When applying the gel, you must be very careful that it does not get in your eyes. If you do not have pure aloe vera gel, you can use any skin care products that contain aloe vera gel or extracts.
To conclude, next time you have puffy eyes, you can easily make them go away using any of these home remedies. However, if you experience puffiness under the eyes for no obvious reason and it is accompanied by pain, discomfort and blurry vision, consult your doctor immediately.
10 Ways To Get Rid of a Black Eye Fast
The most common cause of a black eye is a blow to the face. Black eyes can cause pain, blurry vision, swelling and headaches. It is a sort of bruising to the tissues around the eyes.
Black eye and swelling around the eyes can also occur for a variety of reasons such as nasal injuries, facelifts, jaw surgery, allergic reactions, etc.
The following remedies can help you quickly get rid of a black eye. However, if the skin around your eye is cut or you are having symptoms like dizziness, nausea or vomiting along with vision problems, you should consult your doctor immediately.
1. Ice Pack
The first thing you need to do is apply an ice pack to the affected area as soon as possible. Ice will help reduce the swelling and constrict the blood vessels to reduce internal bleeding and further bruising. It will also speed up the healing process.
- Wrap ice cubes in a clean cotton or muslin cloth.
- Hold it over the eye for about 10 minutes.
- Repeat the process several times a day during the first 48 hours.
This also will help relieve pain. Never use ice directly on the eyes and do not rub the ice pack on delicate skin like that around your eyes. Instead of ice, you can also use a packet of frozen vegetables.
2. Warm Compress
After one or two days of getting a black eye, you need to apply warm compresses. This will help increase blood flow to the tissues around the eye and accelerate the healing process.
- Dip a clean cloth in warm water, and squeeze out the excess water.
- Put the warm cloth on the affected eye until the cloth becomes cool.
- Repeat the process several times a day.
If it doesn’t cause pain, you can also massage the area gently. This will help improve blood circulation and remove the dried blood accumulated under the skin.
3. Vitamin C
When suffering from a black eye, it is very important to include foods with vitamin C in your diet.
There are many food items rich in vitamin C such as Indian gooseberries, guavas, peppers, limes, lemons, broccoli, mangos and oranges. Vitamin C helps thicken the walls of the blood vessels, aiding the healing process.
Alternatively, you can take a vitamin C supplement to give your body the needed daily dose.
4. Calendula
Calendula, also known as marigold, is commonly used to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing. It can also be used to reduce the swelling and bruising associated with black eye.
- Put a handful of petals separated from fresh calendula flowers in a cup of hot water.
- Allow it to steep for 10 to 15 minutes and then place it in the refrigerator for about half an hour.
- Soak a clean washcloth in this cool solution and place it on the eye area for about 5 minutes.
- Do this a few times for a few days.
5. Arnica
Arnica is an herb that can reduce the swelling that often occurs with a black eye. It will also help heal the eye muscles and any other tissue that may have been damaged.
Begin using arnica as soon as possible to prevent the bruise from getting worse. Arnica is available in topical creams or ointments, as well as in oil form, that can be applied on the affected area two to three times a day.
6. Pineapple and Papaya
Pineapple and papaya are two fruits that can help in treating a black eye. Both are rich in antioxidants that speed up the healing process of almost any kind of injury that causes discoloration of the skin.
These fruits have enzymes that soften and heal the skin. To reap the benefits, you can either:
- Apply the pulp of these fruits topically around the blackened area of the eye, or
- Drink these fruit juices or simply eat the fruits.
7. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is regarded as a good healing agent for many problems including black eyes. The following are a couple of ways to use this home remedy.
- Soak a cotton pad in witch hazel and place it on the affected eye for a few minutes. This will have a gentle soothing as well as healing effect.
- You can also prepare a solution of chamomile essential oil, witch hazel and water. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and place it on your eyelid and surrounding area. Repeat the process two to three times a day.
8. Natural Oil
Massaging the affected area with a good natural oil can help relieve swelling and inflammation. Olive oil is the best option as it contains many bruise healing properties.
You can use other types of oil also, like coconut or castor oil. When massaging with oil, be as gentle as possible as extra pressure can cause more pain.
9. Potato
Potatoes can help reduce swelling as well as pain. There are a couple of ways to use this remedy.
- Peel and cut a medium-sized potato into thick slices. Put the potato slices in the refrigerator for half an hour. Then place a cold slice of potato over the affected eye for half an hour.
- Another option is to grate a potato to squeeze out the juice and then apply it to the eye.
In addition to potatoes, you can use cucumber slices or chilled tea bags for the same result.
10. Comfrey Roots
Comfrey root is an excellent home cure to reduce pain and bruising from a black eye.
- Make a paste by grinding one teaspoon of comfrey root along with a little water. Apply this paste on the affected area once a day.
- Make a tea by boiling comfrey root in water, dip a clean cloth in the warm tea and apply it to the bruised area.
