Eyes—A boon: How to protect them

                                              An interview with Dr Anita Panda, an eye specialist

In today`s high tech world, many of us suffer from some common eye ailments. Sitting too long in front of the computer or watching long hours of TV are partially to blame. Other reasons may include things such as allergens, air pollution, sun, stress, and vision problems. Hence, we put our eyes into trouble.

 The symptoms of eye problems are not uncommon and all of us have experienced them at different intervals. These can include headaches, dizziness and blurred vision. We need to remember that God has bestowed us only with one set of eyes in this life. It`s up to us to take utmost care of the eyes. Here are the answers to some common queries that Dr Anita Panda, Professor in Rajendra Prasad Eye Centre, AIIMS, New Delhi shared with us:

Q: What if one gets pricked in the eye?

A: If an individual gets pricked in the eye, firstly he/she needs to clean the eye with a clean handkerchief or napkin. Thereafter, one needs to rush to the Ophthalmologist without any further delay.

Q: What is the ideal procedure to clean one’s eye?

A: The best way to clean one’s eye is using the tap water. One must strictly avoid using stored water. Besides, other products  like Gulab jal, honey etc must be avoided as these are not so hygienic ways to clean the eyes.

Q: Does eyesight change during pregnancy?

A: Yes! during pregnancy, a lot of physiological changes occur in the body of a woman. And thus, it also affects the eyesight. Of course, after delivery, it becomes absolutely normal.

Q: What things do one needs to keep in mind regarding eye make-up?

A: One needs to be very careful regarding the eye make-up. Eye make-up, if at all,  should be minimal and should be applied outside the eyes. It should be prevented from smudging inside the eyes. Besides, one must take due care while removing the eye make-up before going to bed.

Q: What tips you would suggest regarding taking care of the eyes?

A: People should be extra careful while dealing with their eyes. Protecting the eyes from pollution is very essential otherwise the cornea gets adversely affected. For this, one can use sun glasses which serve dual purpose of protection from the harmful rays of sun as well as from the pollution. Besides, eyes need to be cleaned with tap water and neat handkerchief should be used. Apart from this one should visit ophthalmologist on regular basis.
                                                                                         Interviewed by Nitasha Panda.