The choice to wear contact lenses or glasses to solve refractive vision problems can sometimes be inconvenient to some people. What’s more, the lenses and glasses can be expensive as you need to change your prescription regularly. That’s where the LASIK surgery comes in.

A successful LASIK eye surgery facilitates effective vision correction. So, it ensures you can see the world without the hassle, burden, and ongoing costs of glasses or contact lenses. In this article, we’ll help you understand more about LASIK eye surgery in New Jersey.

Why Is LASIK Done?

LASIK surgery is a highly effective solution for correcting common refractive errors, including:

• Astigmatism: A condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens.
• Nearsightedness (Myopia): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
• Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Difficulty focusing on close objects.

This innovative procedure is virtually painless and takes less than 15 minutes for both eyes. One of the most remarkable aspects of LASIK is that its results are almost immediate. Many patients experience improved vision within hours, with stabilization occurring over the next few days.

LASIK is also known for its minimal post-operative discomfort and rapid healing. Most patients can return to their regular activities the day after surgery, making it an attractive option for busy individuals.

How it works

LASIK eye surgery uses a specialized laser to correct refractive issues by reshaping the cornea—the clear, front part of the eye. The goal of reshaping is to ensure that light entering the eye focuses directly on the retina, providing clear vision.

When you go for lasik in New Jersey at Dello Russo Laser Vision , the process begins with a thorough eye exam. This exam helps determine whether you are a suitable candidate for LASIK. It includes assessing:

• The level of vision correction needed.
• Pupil size.
• Corneal thickness.
• Overall eye health.

Once your doctor confirms that you are a good candidate for the procedure, you can proceed with surgery. Here is what typically happens during LASIK:

1. Creating the Corneal Flap: A laser is used to create a thin, precise flap on the surface of the cornea.
2. Reshaping the Cornea: The surgeon lifts the flap and uses another laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. This step corrects the refractive error and improves how light focuses on the retina.
3. Repositioning the Flap: After reshaping, the corneal flap is gently placed back into position, where it heals naturally without the need for stitches.

An essential detail to note is that you’ll remain awake during the procedure. Numbing eye drops are applied to ensure you don’t feel pain, and you’ll experience minimal discomfort throughout the process. The surgery is quick, often completed within minutes, and patients can typically leave the clinic shortly afterward.

How long does recovery take?

As mentioned earlier, recovery after LASIK surgery is almost immediate. You only need to rest your eyes for several hours after the procedure. Sometimes, your doctor can recommend that you relax in a darkened room in your home or take a nap for a few hours.

An essential point to note is that you should avoid activities that strain your eyes, like using screens or reading. But you can resume normal activities a day after the eye surgery. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for LASIK. Here are the qualifications for a successful procedure:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Stable Prescription: Your vision prescription should remain stable for at least one year before the surgery.
• Healthy Eyes: Your eyes should be free from infections, injuries, or conditions like severe dry eye.
• Adequate Corneal Thickness: Sufficient corneal thickness is necessary to ensure safe reshaping during the procedure.
• General Health: Good overall health is essential. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders may increase the risk of complications.

Women who are pregnant or nursing should wait until their hormones stabilize before undergoing LASIK, as hormonal changes can temporarily affect vision.

Bottom Line

Going for LASIK eye surgery can be one of the best decisions you can make. As mentioned, it is one of the safest and most successful vision correction solutions available. Therefore, after the surgery, you’ll not have to worry about the burden of wearing glasses and contact lenses. 

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk

The post Understanding LASIK Surgery: A Guide to Safe and Successful Vision Correction appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

So, it’s essential that you take proactive steps at all stages of your life to maintain eye health. Good eye health during childhood can also translate to good eye health in adulthood. Therefore, no matter how old you or your loved ones are right now, protecting your eyes is vital as it can help to prevent age-related vision loss.

Here, we’ll cover practical tips you and your loved ones can follow to prevent age-related vision loss in Wellington. We’ll provide tips for each stage of life.

Childhood and adolescence

Eye protection should start as early as childhood or adolescence. If you have children, take them for regular eye exams. These exams can help to detect any vision issues. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that initial eye screening should start as early as 3 and regular check-ups thereafter.

Another way to prevent age-related vision loss is to encourage your children to spend time outdoors as it can help to reduce the risk of near-sightedness. When they go outside, ensure they have sunglasses with UV protection to protect their young eyes from harmful rays.

In addition, ensure they take food rich in omega-e fatty acids, vegetables, and fruits to support overall health and vision development.

Young adults

As a young adult in Wellington, it’s essential to prioritize eye care through preventative measures. Routine eye exams are crucial for detecting issues early, and early intervention can help avoid more serious vision problems later on.

For those dealing with refractive errors, consulting an eye doctor in Wellington at See Vision Eye Institute can help resolve issues like nearsightedness or farsightedness. Addressing refractive errors early can help reduce the risk of long-term vision impairment, as these problems contribute to about 43% of global eye issues.

Another key tip is limiting screen time. In today’s digital age, many of us spend long hours on our phones and computers, leading to digital eye strain. To combat this, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to give your eyes a break.

Middle age

If you are in your middle age that is in your 40s to 60s you need to pay close attention to your eyes. Most people start to experience eye issues at these ages. So, monitor for presbyopia, where you have issues with reading small print. You can use progressive lenses or reading glasses in this case. 

Also, conditions like hypertension and diabetes are very common in these ages. If uncontrolled, they can lead to conditions like diabetic retinopathy and other serious eye problems. Therefore, go for regular health check-ups to ensure that you don’t fall victim to these vision issues.

Another thing to do in your middle age is to stay hydrated. Dry eyes sometimes become worse as you age. So, drink a lot of water and use lubricating eye drops when needed. In addition, consume foods that are beneficial for your eye health.

These foods can include citrus fruits, nuts, fish, or leafy greens. Go for those rich in antioxidants, like zeaxanthin, lutein, zinc, and Vitamins C and E.

Seniors of 65 and above

Older adults of 65 and above are at risk of macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts. Therefore, it is essential that they go for frequent eye exams to ensure that they can catch any of these issues early. Early detection of eye issues can help you better protect yourself or your loved one.

So, go for cataracts and glaucoma tests. Also, when you or your loved one goes outside, always ensure that you wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. The sunglasses can help protect against macular degeneration and cataracts.

Final Remarks

As you can see from above, preventing age-related vision loss is a lifelong commitment. It starts by protecting the eyes of children as young as 3 to older adults above the age of 65.  Preventative care, in all these life stages, involves regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and protective measures against environmental factors. All aim to ensure early detection and management of potential eye issues. 

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

The post Preventing Age-Related Vision Loss: Tips for Every Stage of Life appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

The eye contains over two million working parts and is considered the second most complex organ in the body — only usurped by the brain. The eye’s muscles are the fastest and most active muscles in the whole human body.  The inner structures of the eye all work together to produce an image that your brain can understand. In order to produce a clear image, the eyes must complete a three-step process:

1. Light enters the eye through the cornea – when we look at an object, the light that is reflected off the surface of the object enters the eye through the clear front layer of the eye, called the cornea. The cornea bends the light before it passes through a watery substance that fills the area behind the cornea, called the aqueous humour.
2. The pupil adjusts in response to the light – the light travels through the black opening in the centre of the iris, called the pupil. The iris is the colourful part of your eye that gives it its blue, green, hazel, brown or dark appearance. The iris is made up of muscles that expand and contract, and this controls the pupil and adjusts its size in response to the intensity of the light that enters. So, when you see your pupil getting bigger or smaller, it is really the iris that is controlling the pupil opening in a reaction to the light.
3. The lens focuses the light onto the retina – the light passes through the pupil to the lens behind it. The lens adjusts its shape to bend and focus the light a second time, to ensure that you have a clear image of what you are looking at. At this point, the light has been bent twice— as it moved from the cornea through the lens, and then from the lens to the retina. This “double bending” has actually flipped the image upside down. The space between the lens and the retina is filled with a gel known as the vitreous humour. This is composed of 99% water with a framework of hyaluronic acid and collagen.

The surface of the eye and inner surface of the eyelids are covered with a clear membrane called the conjunctiva, and the eye is lubricated by tears. Our tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision, as well as providing essential lubrication and reducing the risk of eye infection by washing away foreign matter in the eye.

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease, often referred to as Dry Eye is a common condition affecting the eyes. Official estimates put prevalence at around one third of people in the UK with Dry Eye Disease, although real world research, commissioned on behalf of Rohto Dry Aid – the scientifically backed eye drop treatment for the two main types of Dry Eye Disease – Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye (ADDE) and Evaporative Dry Eye (EDE) – reveals that 54% of people report that they have experienced dry eyes, the key symptom eponymous of the disease. Many people are totally unaware about the symptoms of Dry Eye, which could mean they’re potentially living with a problem that will only get worse.

Dry Eye Disease happens when you don’t produce enough tears (Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye or ADDE) or the consistency of the tear changes (Evaporative Dry Eye or EDE). This leads to inadequate lubrication of the tear film with inflammation and likely damage to the eye surface. Untreated, it can have pretty serious consequences, yet despite this few people are even aware of it – 51% of people have never even heard of it, according to the real-world data from Rohto Dry Aid. Symptoms can include a dry sensation in the eyes, sore, tired and/or itchy eyes, redness, a burning, stinging or gritty sensation, headaches, light sensitivity and blurred vision. 

It’s important to understand the difference between the two main  types of Dry Eye. In ADDE, the tear glands don’t produce enough tears, whereas EDE is caused by a damaged tear film lipid layer, which allows tears to evaporate. It is thought that around 85% of Dry Eye cases are caused by EDE, but many people may experience a combination of both types. Having insufficient tears or inadequate tears causes tear instability and can lead to inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface. 

There are two sets of glands involved in Dry Eye Disease – the Meibomian glands (which are involved in EDE) and the lacrimal glands, which are responsible for the production of fluids that maintain the tear film.  Our tear film has multiple layers.  The outermost lipid layer consists of oils made by Meibomian glands. These oils should prevent evaporation of the tear film. The next layer – the aqueous layer, consists of a watery solution secreted by the lacrimal glands, which provides protection from infection, stopping germs, bacteria and particles from entering the eye. The innermost mucin layer is made up of a protective mucus membrane, which contains proteins including Immunoglobulins (which protect against infection) and mucin proteins (which trap debris and reduce friction when blinking). The aqueous and mucin layers are also known as the muco-aqueous layer.

Menopause And Dry Eye Disease – The Relationship

There are many factors that can trigger and influence Dry Eye Disease. Women are almost twice as likely to develop Dry Eye Disease than men and this is largely down due to hormonal changes including pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives and menopause. 

Menopause can have a big impact on Dry Eye Disease thanks to changing levels of the hormones oestrogen and androgen.  A reduction in tear production caused by dysfunction in the lacrimal gland may occur during menopause and meibomian gland dysfunction is common before, during and after menopause. 

Studies have shown that during perimenopause and menopause tear glands produce fewer tears and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction increases, causing reduction in the oils and mucin which protect and lubricate the eye surface. This results in increased evaporation of the tears.

However, new real-world research on behalf of Rohto Dry Aid revealed that 44% of women do not realise that peri-menopause and menopause can affect the eyes, although 24% of women in the menopause say that it has done, with dry eyes (51%), itchy eyes (37%) and blurred eyes (31%) the most common symptoms. No coincidence that these are also among the main symptoms of Dry Eye Disease. Some 16% of respondents in the Rohto Dry Aid poll said they have started using eye drops more often since starting menopause. 

Rohto Dry Aid: Breaking The Cycle Of Dry Eye Disease 

To fight against Dry Eye Disease, Rohto Pharmaceutical, one of the world leaders in eyecare and eye care specialists since 1909, have created Rohto Dry Aid, a proven eye drop treatment for Dry Eye Disease with a focus on the two main types of Dry Eye – Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye (ADDE) and Evaporative Dry Eye (EDE). 

Rohto Dry Aid provides fast soothing relief for up to 12 hours and it provides relief for  eight main symptoms of Dry Eye including dryness, soreness, itchiness, irritation, burning, grittiness, stinging and tiredness.

A UK user trial involving 107 adults suffering from Dry Eye Disease symptoms found that 97% of the volunteers reported symptom relief in just two minutes or less when using Rohto Dry Aid. 

Helping break the cycle of Dry Eye Disease with a technology advanced product filled with science-backed ingredients that work to hydrate and restore the natural tear film layers is essential. 

And because Rohto Dry Aid caters to the two main types of Dry Eye Disease, it’s suitable for those who are perhaps unaware which type of Dry Eye they actually suffer from.

Evaporative Dry Eye requires lipid-based products to help restore the lipid layer. If the lipid layer isn’t restored, the tears will continue to evaporate and the uncomfortable cycle of Dry Eye Disease will continue.

Smart Tearshield Technology

Rohto Dry Aid contains a unique Tearshield Technology. This restores the lipid layer – sealing in (lipid shield) and restoring the aqueous layer, in turn restoring the natural tear’s health. Eye products can often be daunting to use. After all, they’re dealing with a very sensitive and delicate part of the body. Rohto Dry Aid is a scientific research collaboration with two panel members of TFOS DEWS II (Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society International Dry Eye Workshop II): Norihiko Yokoi from the Department of Ophthalmology at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine in Japan and, Georgi As Georgiev from the Faculty of Physics at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” in Bulgaria.

So, it really is an expert-approved product for Dry Eye Disease, giving you peace of mind. The beauty of Rohto Dry Aid is that it’s aimed at women and men of all ages from the age of six years as well as women who are menopausal or postmenopausal, and everyone who frequently uses a computer, plays video games or spends time looking at digital screens such as phones and the television. 

For more information please visit https://www.mentholatum.co.uk/brands/rohto-dry-aid

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Laser Vision Correction: A Long-Term Solution

Imagine waking up and seeing clearly without having to reach for your contacts. That’s where laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery comes in. The LASIK procedure is designed to permanently correct your vision using a laser, so you no longer have to rely on glasses or contact lenses. It is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve how light is focused on your retina. In simple terms, it corrects common refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, so you can see clearly without the need for lenses.

This procedure is also known as laser eye surgery or laser vision correction.

The Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery

There are plenty of reasons why laser vision correction could be a game-changer for you:

1. No More Daily Hassles: The biggest perk is that it eliminates the need for contacts altogether. No more fumbling with your lenses, no more cleaning solutions, and no more worrying about forgetting them on trips.
2. Freedom from Glasses: While contacts can be freeing in their own way, they still require maintenance. But after this procedure, you can experience true visual freedom. You wake up, and you’re ready to go—no lenses, no glasses. It’s a liberating feeling, especially if you’ve spent years relying on vision aids.
3. Clear Vision at All Times: LASIK allows you to experience clear, crisp vision 24/7. You won’t have to deal with contacts drying out in air-conditioned rooms or during long flights. Your vision will remain sharp whether you’re in front of a screen, outdoors, or engaging in sports and physical activities.
4. Long-Term Savings: While the surgery does come with upfront costs, it’s important to think about how much you’ll save in the long run. The price of contact lenses, cleaning solutions, and even prescription updates for glasses can add up significantly over the years. This surgical solution is a one-time investment in your vision that can save you money over time.
5. Improved Comfort: Contact lenses can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if you suffer from dry eyes or allergies. Surgery removes that irritation factor, giving your eyes a break. You’ll no longer have to worry about infections, discomfort, or needing to take your lenses out after long hours of wear.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

It is relatively straightforward and surprisingly fast. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Consultation and Preparation: Before the surgery, you’ll have a consultation with an eye specialist who will assess your eye health and determine whether you’re a good candidate for it. Not everyone qualifies, but the vast majority of people who wear contact lenses do. Your eye shape, the thickness of the cornea, and your prescription level will all be considered.
2. The Surgery: On D-day, you’ll be given numbing eye drops to ensure you don’t feel discomfort. Using advanced laser technology, the surgeon will create a small flap on the surface of your cornea. They’ll then use a second laser to reshape the underlying tissue, correcting your vision. This part of the surgery typically takes only a few minutes per eye.
3. Recovery: Most people are amazed by how quickly they start seeing results. Within 24 to 48 hours, you should experience significant improvement in your vision. The healing process is generally smooth, with many patients able to return to work and normal activities within a day or two.

Is LASIK Right for You?

The idea of permanent vision correction is exciting, but it’s important to make sure this solution is right for you. If you’re over 18, have a stable vision prescription, and are generally healthy, there’s a good chance you’ll qualify. Your eye doctor can provide a thorough evaluation to ensure you’re a suitable candidate for the surgery.

If you’re ready to break free from the routine of contact lenses and enjoy the freedom of clear, unaided vision, laser eye surgery could be the perfect solution. It’s a straightforward, life-changing procedure that can help you see the world clearly without the hassle of contacts or glasses.

Final Thoughts

The dry eyes, maybe even the occasional infection, or that irritating feeling of contact lenses can finally be a thing of the past. Now, you can leave behind the daily maintenance of contact lenses and enjoy a simpler, more comfortable lifestyle. So, if you’re tired of the inconvenience and want a long-term solution, laser vision correction could be the life-changing answer you’ve been looking for.

Photo by Ozkan Guner on Unsplash

The post How LASIK Surgery Can Help You Ditch Contact Lenses for Good appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

However, the demands of modern living, combined with age-related changes, can pose challenges to our visual well-being. This guide aims to shed light on seven practical tips to enhance your vision and preserve good eye health. From simple lifestyle adjustments to proactive habits, these strategies empower you to take control of your eye health, ensuring clarity and focus in the journey of life.

1. Prioritize a Nutrient-Rich Diet:

A well-balanced diet isn’t just beneficial for your overall health; it plays a significant role in maintaining good eye health. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, and E, as well as zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. Leafy greens, colorful fruits, and fish are excellent choices that provide essential nutrients for your eyes. These nutrients, found abundantly in these foods, nourish the eyes and contribute to their overall well-being, reducing the risk of age-related degeneration. Additionally, a diet rich in antioxidants helps combat oxidative stress, which can be detrimental to ocular tissues. Consider consulting with a nutritionist to tailor your diet specifically for optimal eye health.

2. Stay Hydrated:

Proper hydration is essential for overall health, including eye health. Dehydration can lead to dry eyes and discomfort. Ensure you drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep your eyes well-hydrated and functioning optimally. Adequate hydration not only supports tear production but also helps maintain the natural moisture balance in your eyes, preventing irritation and dryness. 

Remember that caffeine and alcohol can contribute to dehydration, so it’s essential to balance your fluid intake with these considerations to promote optimal eye hydration. Consider infusing your water with slices of cucumber or lemon for an extra boost of hydration and eye-friendly nutrients.

3. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule:

In our digital age, where screens dominate our daily lives, prolonged screen time can strain our eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule to alleviate eye strain: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. It could be a city skyline, like the iconic views of Chicago’s impressive architecture. This simple practice helps reduce eye fatigue and promotes better focus. 

By incorporating this rule into your screen-related activities, you allow your eyes crucial moments of rest, mitigating the impact of prolonged digital exposure. Remember to blink frequently during these breaks to keep your eyes moist and refreshed. Additionally, consider using artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated, especially in dry indoor environments.

4. Consideration for Eye Surgery:

For individuals with specific vision issues, eye surgery can be a transformative option. Procedures such as LASIK or cataract surgery can correct refractive errors or address age-related changes. Consult with top eye surgeons at Chicago Cornea to explore whether surgical interventions align with your vision improvement goals.

Advances in eye surgery techniques have made these procedures safer and more effective, offering life-changing benefits for those seeking lasting vision improvement. It’s crucial to have realistic expectations and a thorough understanding of the procedure before making decisions about eye surgery. Many individuals who undergo these surgeries experience a significant enhancement in their quality of life, enjoying the freedom from glasses or improved vision clarity that can positively impact daily activities.

5. Exercise Your Eyes:

Just like the rest of your body, your eyes benefit from regular exercise. Simple eye exercises can strengthen eye muscles and enhance flexibility. Try focusing on a near object and then switching to a distant one, or rolling your eyes in different directions. These exercises can contribute to improved vision and reduce the risk of age-related eye conditions. Regular eye exercises stimulate blood flow to the eyes, promoting optimal functioning and reducing the likelihood of eye strain. Additionally, incorporating eye yoga into your routine can help relax and rejuvenate your eye muscles. Don’t forget to include these exercises as part of your daily wellness routine.

6. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays:

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays when outdoors. This not only protects your eyes but also prevents premature aging of the skin around the eyes. Consistent use of UV-protective sunglasses serves as a preventive measure, safeguarding your eyes against potential damage from harmful sun rays. Opt for wraparound styles to provide additional protection from side angles and glare. Remember to check the UV protection level when selecting sunglasses to ensure optimal shielding.

7. Get Regular Eye Check-ups:

Routine eye check-ups are essential for maintaining good eye health. Regular visits to an eye care professional can detect early signs of eye conditions and ensure that your prescription, if needed, is up-to-date. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing and managing eye issues.

Scheduled eye check-ups provide an opportunity for timely adjustments to your eyewear prescription and proactive monitoring of your eye health. Additionally, these visits enable your eye care professional to assess your overall eye health, including conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, which may not present noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Make it a point to schedule annual eye check-ups to ensure comprehensive eye care.

Conclusion

Our eyes, often taken for granted, deserve our utmost care and attention. By incorporating these seven tips into your daily routine, you embark on a journey towards improved vision and sustained eye health. From nourishing your eyes with the right nutrients to protecting them from harmful UV rays and embracing healthy lifestyle choices, these practices collectively contribute to a lifetime of clear vision. Remember, the steps you take today lay the foundation for a future filled with vibrant and focused sight. Prioritize your eyes, and they will reward you with the gift of clear vision for life.

The post 7 Tips to Improve your Vision and Maintain Good Eye Health appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Before diving into the intricate relationship between what we eat and the wellness of our eyes, it’s worth noting the importance of regular check-ups and the potential benefits of considering options like purchasing eyeglasses online to correct vision issues. In this post, we’ll explore the vitamins and minerals crucial for our eyes, list foods abundant in these nutrients, and provide tips to seamlessly weave them into your daily meals.

Vitamins and Minerals: The Cornerstones of Optimal Eye Health 

It’s undeniable that specific vitamins and minerals have pronounced effects on our visual wellness. Vitamin A stands tall among them. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to night blindness, where distinguishing objects in low light becomes challenging. Moreover, an extreme lack can result in xerophthalmia, a severe eye disorder that can culminate in blindness. 

But Vitamin A doesn’t stand alone. Zinc, often operating behind the scenes, plays a pivotal role in transporting Vitamin A from the liver to the retina, thereby producing melanin, a protective pigment in the eyes. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids, typically associated with brain health, have benefits for our eyes as well. These fatty acids contribute to visual development and the health of the retina.

Power Foods to Elevate Your Eye Health

Want to know the best foods for your eye health? Here are our picks:

• Carrots: Beyond being renowned eye foods packed with beta-carotene, carrots also possess lutein. This antioxidant combats age-related macular degeneration. Whether eaten raw, in juices, or cooked, carrots seamlessly fit into any meal, promising a dose of eye nutrition.
• Fish: Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are more than just seafood delicacies; they’re reservoirs of omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming these fish aids in retinal health and provides a shield against dry eyes.
• Eggs: An everyday favorite, eggs offer more than just breakfast goodness. The yolk, in particular, carries lutein and zinc. These components play pivotal roles in maintaining the macula’s health and facilitating Vitamin A’s transportation.
• Nuts and Legumes: When discussing walnuts, Brazil nuts, and lentils, you’re addressing an omega-3 and Vitamin E powerhouse. A handful in your diet can bolster protection against age-related eye conditions.
• Beef: Meats, specifically beef, shouldn’t be overlooked. Beef’s richness in zinc aids the retina and can curb advanced age-related macular degeneration risks. Incorporating lean beef cuts into your meals proves beneficial for eyesight.
• Oranges: More than a Vitamin C source, oranges support the blood vessels in our eyes. Regular consumption can deter the onset of cataracts. Including other citrus fruits in the diet amplifies these eye health benefits.

Incorporating Eye-Healthy Foods into Your Diet: A Practical Guide 

As with many things in life, knowing is only half the battle; implementation is the key. So, how do you ensure these foods find a way into your meals? 

Let’s start with breakfast. A simple omelet packed with spinach and served with a side of fresh fruit can set the tone for the day. As you navigate through lunch and dinner, salads brimming with leafy greens, sprinkled with nuts, and accompanied by grilled fish serve as a delicious and nutritious option. 

Smoothies offer another avenue. Blend in some kale, spinach, and a citrus fruit of your choice for a refreshing drink that caters to your eyes. When it comes to snacks, instead of reaching for that bag of chips, consider a handful of almonds or walnuts.

Beyond Nutrition: Embracing a Holistic Approach 

While we’ve delved deep into the foods that fortify our eyes, it’s vital to remember that nutrition is one facet of eye care. Regular eye check-ups, protecting your eyes from prolonged screen time, and equipping yourself with quality eyewear when needed, play a significant role. Considering the plethora of options available today, many choose to buy eyeglasses online at retailers like GlassesUSA, making it more accessible and convenient.

Enriching Vision: The Harmonious Dance of Diet and Care 

The world, in all its visual splendor, waits to be seen, and our eyes are the gatekeepers of these visual experiences. By consciously choosing foods that nurture our eyes and complementing it with regular care, we not only preserve but potentially enhance our vision. 

Exploring options like buying eyeglasses online or ensuring we take regular breaks from screens underscores the idea that our eyes, like any prized possession, deserve comprehensive care. So, as we plate up our next meal or decide on our daily routines, let’s be reminded of the profound impact these choices can have on the windows to our world.

The post Nurturing Vision through Diet: Nutrition for Eye Health appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

As the world unites to shed light on this critical issue of eye health, the Royal Society for Blind Children urges individuals, communities, and businesses to participate actively and contribute to the RSBC’s mission of supporting blind children and young people and their families to develop the skills and qualifications they need to overcome the barriers to realising their hopes, dreams, and ambitions.

What is World Sight Day?World Sight Day, observed on the second Thursday of October each year, is a global initiative organised by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB). This day aims to draw attention to the staggering number of people worldwide who are blind or partially sighted. It provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the causes of sight loss, promote eye health, and highlight the crucial role that organisations like the RSBC play in supporting vision-impaired children.Why does World Sight Day matter?Vision impairment has a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 2 billion people worldwide have a vision impairment, with at least 1 billion having conditions which are preventable or treatable. Alarmingly, the majority of those affected are children. World Sight Day serves as a wake-up call, urging us to act and address the challenges faced by vision-impaired children.

Why should you consider supporting the Royal Society for Blind Children?The RSBC believes that all children should have the opportunity to live without limits. By supporting this charity, you will help empower vision-impaired children to develop essential skills, gain independence, and pursue their dreams. RSBC understands that vision impairment affects the entire family. 

They provide emotional and practical support and advice, helping to equip them with the tools they need to support their child’s sight loss journey.
Technological advancements have revolutionised the lives of vision-impaired individuals. By fundraising for the RSBC, you can contribute to providing vision-impaired children with the support to learn how to use specialist adaptive tools such as screen readers, magnifiers, and Braille displays, and how to use the accessibility tools on mainstream products such as smartphones and tablets, thus enabling them to access information, have greater social engagement and engage in learning.

RSBC provides services to support independent living, including orientation and mobility training in its specialist College and daily living skills such as cookery. Your fundraising efforts can support these crucial services.

Vision-impaired children often face social exclusion and limited opportunities for socialisation. The RSBC’s programmes promote social inclusion, enabling vision-impaired children to connect with peers and develop friendships. By fundraising for the RSBC, you contribute to creating a supportive community that celebrates diversity and ensures vision-impaired children have opportunities to participate in a wide range of social activities.
The charity helps equip vision-impaired children with essential life skills, vocational training, and job placement support, supporting them to overcome barriers to employment and taking their place in society.

Shalni Sood, Director of Philanthropy RSBC said:  “By supporting the RSBC, you make a profound and long-lasting impact on the lives of vision-impaired children and their families. Your fundraising effort can help break the cycle of disadvantage and help transform the lives of vision-impaired children, young people, and their families.

World Sight Day presents a unique opportunity for individuals and communities to come together, raise awareness, and help to make a tangible difference in the lives of vision-impaired children. By participating in this global event and fundraising for the Royal Society for Blind Children, you play an active role in promoting inclusivity, empowerment, and helping create a brighter future for vision-impaired children.

To learn more about how you can participate and fundraise for the Royal Society for Blind Children, please contact Heather.Suttie@rsbc.org.uk

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Imagine waking up every day with a dim and blurry view of the world. The once vivid colours now appear muted, and the faces of loved ones become fleeting glimpses. As the world outside gets brighter with the sun’s rays, my vision seems to retreat further into the shadows, leaving me with limited clarity and a sense of detachment from my surroundings. Each step I take feels like a leap of faith, as my visual field resembles a tunnel, with the periphery almost entirely obscured.

However, my condition has never defined me. I have learned to adapt, to find my own unique perspective in a world predominantly experienced through sight. With the support of my family and my own unwavering determination, I have embraced challenges head-on and refused to let my vision loss dictate the trajectory of my life.

Living with 2% vision has taught me the value of resilience and resourcefulness. Everyday tasks that many take for granted, such as reading street signs, navigating through crowded spaces, or identifying familiar faces, require a heightened level of concentration and adaptability. The seemingly mundane activities can become immense feats of determination, yet each small accomplishment serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

In a world that heavily relies on visual communication, I have discovered the beauty of alternative forms of connection. My sense of touch and sound have become more acute, allowing me to appreciate the subtleties in the texture of objects and the cadence of voices. 

One of the most significant challenges of living with limited vision is the sense of isolation that can accompany it. I have faced moments of frustration and loneliness, feeling disconnected from the experiences of my sighted peers. But these moments have driven me to seek a sense of community, to connect with others who share similar struggles, and to build a support network that understands the unique perspectives of those with visual impairments.

Through my own journey, I realised that I had the power to create positive change for myself and others. This realisation led to the birth of Blind Ambition, my company dedicated to educating organisations about disabilities and promoting workplace equality. I recognised the need for disability awareness training to bridge the gap between individuals with disabilities and the corporate world. Blind Ambition became my platform to advocate for inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities for all, regardless of their abilities.

My experiences have taught me that disabilities do not define individuals; instead, they represent the inherent strength and resilience that lie within each person. As I embraced my identity as a visually impaired individual, I discovered my passion for empowering others who have been disadvantaged by their disabilities. Blind Ambition became the manifestation of this passion, as I sought to create a more inclusive and understanding world.

Living with 2% vision has not been without its trials, but it has also illuminated my path with purpose and determination. Every obstacle I overcome serves as a reminder that I possess the strength to surmount any challenge life presents. My journey has been one of self-discovery, advocacy, and a celebration of the beauty that lies within diversity.

And it’s been a positive experience too as living with 2% vision has shaped my life in ways I could never have imagined. The challenges and triumphs have given me a unique perspective on the world and a profound appreciation for the strengths that reside within all individuals, regardless of their abilities. 

Through my journey, I have come to embrace the light within myself, and it is this light that fuels my passion for empowering others to embrace their own brilliance and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society.

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Specialist eye consultant and founder of London Ophthalmology Centre, Vik Sharma, is a leading mind in eye care in the UK and globally and has commissioned a National Eye Health Survey* to highlight the importance of regular check-ups, raise awareness of glaucoma, cataracts and other diseases that can impact vision and make the public aware of new and innovative solutions for eye care.

The extensive survey has highlighted that only a third (38%) of the UK public is aware of alternatives to laser surgery to correct eyesight such as lens replacement and refractive lens exchange. Even fewer (7%) are aware of iCL Vision Correction, a solution that goes beyond LASIK. It helps people enjoy sharper, clearer, and more vivid vision, with greater depth and dimension.

Over 100,000 thousand people in the UK have laser eye surgery (LASIK) every year with many of them opting for this surgery without knowing about other potentially safer, better and more permanent solutions.

The main intention of any surgery on the eye, such as LASIK, is to permanently alter the shape of the cornea, in order to redefine how light is focused on the retina. However, in many cases, undergoing laser eye surgery or other refractive surgeries to the cornea may not be in the patient’s best interest and doesn’t offer the best quality or stability.

Lens replacement, refractive lens exchange and iCL offer better-quality vision and more stable results and the London Ophthalmology Centre offers high-definition, spectacle-free vision, without the need to cut the central cornea.

Consultant Vik Sharma, commented, “It is concerning to see the lack of awareness from the general public to all the alternatives available for eyesight correction.

Many refractive procedures such as LASIK offer the promise of improved visual acuity but the quality of your vision may vary significantly based on the procedure you choose. This is why at the clinic we offer alternative procedures that give our clients sharper, clearer, and more vivid vision, with greater depth and dimension.”

 The London Ophthalmology Centre (OC) is a world-leading eye care clinic and offers some of the latest innovative techniques that are exclusive to the clinic. All consultants hold Fellowships FRCOphth with the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. The centre was founded by Mr Sharma who is a surgeon to royalty and the trusted choice of professional colleagues including doctors, GPs and eye surgeons. 

To find out more visit the London OC website – London OC

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A Haven for Eye Health in the Heart of the Rockies

Calgary, situated in the province of Alberta, is the third-largest city in Canada. It’s widely recognized for hosting the Calgary Stampede, one of the world’s largest rodeos and a significant tourist attraction. However, apart from its cultural richness, the city boasts cutting-edge medical facilities. The eyecare centres here have adopted the latest technological advancements to provide a plethora of eye solutions that cater to the needs of a diverse population.

Routine Examinations

One of the fundamental services offered by eyecare specialty centres in Calgary is routine eye examinations. Regular check-ups are quintessential in detecting vision problems and eye diseases at an early stage. These clinics are well-equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools that help evaluate eye health accurately.

Paediatric Eyecare

Children’s vision plays a critical role in their learning and development. Calgary’s eyecare specialty centres pay special attention to paediatric eyecare. From vision screenings for infants to managing complex paediatric eye conditions, these centres ensure the little ones receive the best care for their budding eyes.

Managing Several Conditions

Calgary’s eye care specialty centres are proficient in managing various eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. With an interdisciplinary approach, these centres ensure that patients with chronic eye diseases receive the appropriate medical, surgical, or rehabilitative services.

Contact Lens and Eyeglass Prescriptions

Perfect vision is vital for enjoying the breathtaking vistas of the Rocky Mountains and bustling city life. Eyecare specialty centers in Calgary prescribe contact lenses and eyeglasses tailored to individual visual needs. With various lenses and frames available, patients can choose options that not only correct their vision but also suit their style.

Laser Surgery Consultation

The advent of laser eye surgery has revolutionized the field of vision correction. Many individuals in Calgary opt for laser eye surgeries like LASIK to bid adieu to their glasses or contact lenses. The eyecare clinics here provide consultations and referrals for those seeking such procedures, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared.

Low Vision Services

For those who have vision impairments that cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery, low-vision services are a boon. These services involve assessing and providing aids that can maximize the remaining vision. 

Emergency Care

Eye emergencies such as sudden vision loss, eye injuries, or infections demand immediate attention. Such centres in the city are equipped to handle emergencies with promptness and precision.

Conclusion

A Calgary eye clinic is committed to delivering comprehensive and top-notch eyecare services. With an emphasis on preventive care, early detection, and effective management of eye conditions, these centres ensure patients have clear vision and healthy eyes to savour the city beauty that surrounds them. The eyecare specialty centres in Calgary are not just healthcare providers; they are custodians of vision, paving the way for a brighter and clearer future for all.

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