In India, 1 in every 4 children in urban areas and 1 in every 7 in rural areas now wears glasses, highlighting the rising prevalence of vision problems among children. With the increasing need for proper eye care, especially as the monsoon season progresses, it’s crucial to pay attention to your child’s eye health and maintain regular consultations with an ophthalmologist.
Dr. Jay Goyal, an Eye Surgeon and LASIK and Retina Specialist, as well as Director at Surya Eye Hospital, offered expert tips on maintaining children’s eye health:
- Wear Glasses Regularly
Children must consistently wear their prescribed glasses to correct vision, reduce eye strain, and prevent worsening refractive errors. Skipping glasses could lead to deteriorating vision and stronger prescriptions in the future. - Limit Screen Time
Excessive screen use contributes to eye strain and fatigue. Limiting screen time to one hour per day helps reduce the risk of digital eye strain, which can lead to conditions like myopia and dry eyes. - Avoid Eye Rubbing
Rubbing the eyes can cause corneal damage and lead to serious conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges outward. This condition can significantly impair vision and may require surgery. - Maintain a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and essential nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids is crucial for good eye health. Foods such as carrots, spinach, and fish support overall eye function.
Additionally, Dr. Shachi Joshi, an ophthalmologist in Mumbai, shared these important tips:
- Encourage Outdoor Activities
Spending time outdoors, especially in natural light, reduces the risk of myopia and promotes eye health. Aim for at least 1-2 hours of outdoor activity each day to benefit both the eyes and overall physical health. - Maintain Proper Reading Distance
To avoid eye strain, children should maintain a reading distance of at least 40 cm from books or screens. This helps minimize stress on the eyes and can prevent the onset of myopia. - Ensure Proper Lighting
Adequate lighting while studying or working is essential to avoid eye strain. A well-lit environment with balanced lighting reduces the risk of glare and shadows on reading materials. - Get Adequate Sleep
Children need 7-8 hours of sleep each night to rest their eyes and support overall well-being. Insufficient sleep can lead to eye fatigue and long-term vision issues. - Regular Eye Check-ups
Visiting an eye specialist every six months is important for monitoring eye health and addressing potential problems early. Timely detection and treatment help maintain your child’s vision and prevent future complications.
