\r\n

5 Activities to Avoid Dry Eye Problems in Winters

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The variation in the temperatures inside your home and outside during the winter season can not only render your skin dry. However, it can also cause dryness and discomfort in your eyes¹

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The weather in the winter season is known to reduce the moisture in your eyes, which causes eye irritation and creates a burning or itching sensation in the eyes². Remember, if you are dealing with any eye irritation, you should avoid rubbing your eyes as it can make things worse.

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Before we talk tips and tell you how to avoid dryness in the eyes, you must understand why winter weather can be harsh on your eyes.

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During winters, the temperature outside drops leading to dry cold air, whereas your indoor temperature is warm & dry due to heating devices².The exposure to cold and/or warm dry air causes the eye to get dehydrated and may give rise to symptoms such as:

\r\n

Scratching or burning sensation
Pain and redness of the eye
Blurred vision
Incidences of excess tears following very dry eye periods etc.

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To help you stay secure and keep your eyes healthy, here are some activities to avoid dryness problems in your eyes during winter:

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1. Avoid Resting/Sitting Directly In Front Of A Heat Source

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During the colder months², the warmth from a fireplace or a heater sure feels nice and cozy. However, the heat blowing onto your face is made up of dry air, which can dry out your eyes.

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A simple way to avoid eye dryness due to hot air is to make sure that you avoid sitting directly in front or too close to the heat source. It will keep your eyes naturally moist as now the dry, hot air won’t irritate your eyes.

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2. Avoid Scratching and Rubbing Your Eyes

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To rub your already irritated eyes is probably the worst thing to do. It sure is tempting to rub out any itch, but rubbing your eyes continuously can harm the thin blood vessels present in and around the eyes. You can also end up damaging your cornea in the process⁵.

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Alternatively, instead of vigorously rubbing your eyes, wash them with cold water. If the problem persists, consult with an eye care professional.

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3. Avoid Going Out Without UV Protection

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During the winter season, we enjoy the sun’s warmth. However, we tend to forget that excessive UV exposure through direct sunlight can increase the risk of developing cataracts and skin cancer⁶. Thus, it is recommended that you always use sunscreen and sunglasses if you plan to stay outdoors for long hours.

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If you reside in a place where it snows during winter, you can get excess UV exposure due to reflection from snowy surfaces, which can harm your skin as well as your eyes.

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4. Avoid Skipping Your Optometrist’s Appointment

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Arguably, eyes are one of the most sensitive body organs. Yet, when it comes to prioritizing eye health, we tend to make excuses until the condition worsens. Regular eye check-ups are a must if you wear eyeglasses or like wearing contact lenses. Even if you are not using any prescription visual aids, you must get your eyes checked regularly⁷.

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Suppose you experience dryness, irritation, and itchiness in your eyes due to the cold winter weather. In that case, you must consult an eye care professional immediately.

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5. Avoid Overusing Digital Devices

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Instead of keeping your eyes glued to laptops and other digital screens, take a break from them during winters. Refrain from sitting in front of a computer or spending hours over your smartphone for extended periods. Prolonged or extended exposure to digital screens is known to give rise to a syndrome known as Digital Eye Strain⁸.

\r\n

During the winters, your eyes are more prone to dryness due to the cold air. To top that, if you spend long hours in front of your television or computer screen during the holiday season, you need to make sure that you limit the time you spend using digital devices.

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At Bausch+Lomb, we are committed to delivering the best contact lenses wearing experience. Explore our range of contact lenses that are designed to provide superior vision and the highest possible comfort.

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You can also explore Bausch+Lomb’s Ultra Contact lenses that are specifically designed to alleviate lens-related dryness in the eyes. Ultra-Contact Lenses are made with MoistureSeal Technology and offer high moisture retainability, which means your eyes stay moist and healthy.

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Finding the Right Contact Lens

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Wearing the right pair of contact lenses is imperative to maintain your eye health. Make sure that you consult with an optometrist first before choosing your contact lenses. You can discuss your digital screen exposure and get recommendations from your optometrist regarding the different types of contact lenses that can help you with dry eyes.

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Additionally, if you enjoy wearing contact lenses for the benefits they offer, remember to follow your contact lens wear and care regimen diligently as prescribed by your eye care specialist. Developing little habits protect you from long term severities.

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Explore Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

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Unlike bi-weekly, monthly, and annually disposable contact lenses, daily disposables contact lenses don’t demand regular cleaning and maintenance. You wear daily disposable contact lenses only once, meaning one time only, and then you dispose of them. When you are wearing your contact lenses again in the morning, you will be using a new and fresh pair.

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With daily disposable contact lenses, you don’t deal with any deposits and build-up, which means they are safe to use and reduced the chances of any eye infections⁹.

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Additionally, daily disposable contact lenses may deliver a more comfortable and fresh feeling experience all day long. You don’t spend any time handling your contact lenses, yet you enjoy the precise vision and keep your eyes healthy.

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Find the Best Contact Lenses

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Wearing contact lenses pose little to no threats if you know how to use them correctly, as advised by your eye care specialist. There’s no one-size-fits-all possibility when it comes to wearing contact lenses.

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Explore Bausch+Lomb’s Biotrue ONEday Daily disposable contact lenses that offer comfortable wear throughout the day.

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What’s more? Biotrue ONEday Daily disposables also provide UV protection against the harmful sun rays. Although, it is advised that you use sunglasses to double up your UV protection. Made with patented Bausch+Lomb’s HyperGel material, Biotrue ONEday disposable contact lenses empower you with consistently comfortable, precise, and clear vision.

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Depending on your lifestyle and vision requirements, you can explore different types of contact lenses and select one that suits you the best. Remember to get in touch with your eye care specialist first! \r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\nSources:
\r\n \r\n[1] https://www.uabmedicine.org/-/cold-weather-woes-and-dry-eyes
\r\n\r\n[2] & [3] https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/winter-dry-eye
\r\n\r\n[4] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/how-can-i-tell-whats-causing-my-dry-eye
\r\n\r\n[5] https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/corneal-conditions
\r\n\r\n[6] https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/effects-of-uv-radiation-on-eye-immune-system-and-skin
\r\n\r\n[7] https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/keep-your-eyes-healthy
\r\n\r\n[8] https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/dry-eye
\r\n\r\n[9] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8906382/\r\n

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Protecting Your Baby’s Vision

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\r\n It’s never too early to be concerned about your baby’s eye safety. They’re naturally curious. It’s your baby’s job to learn all about the world around them and your job to protect them.\r\n

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How Can I Make My House Safe for My Baby’s Eyes?

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When there’s a baby in your house, scissors, paper clips, thumbtacks, coat hangers, pens and pencils, and all kinds of other sharp objects, large and small, become potential hazards for your crawling child. Equally treacherous are aerosol sprays, perfumes, and chemicals.\r\n

\r\n It’s not easy to keep your baby’s eyes out of harm’s way. Here are some tips and ideas to make your home, your car, and even the playground as safe as possible for your baby’s developing eyesight:\r\n

\r\n

Avoid toys with sharp points – and keep toys for older children away from infants.
Examine all the items in playgrounds.
Keep chemicals securely out of harm’s reach, up high.
Use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
Place pads over sharp corners on furniture.

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Can I Treat an Eye Injury Myself?

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\r\n Despite every precaution, accidents happen. If your baby's eye is injured, you should always get immediate, professional medical attention. It’s the best way to safeguard your baby's vision.\r\n

\r\n Here are some tips in the event of an eye injury (these tips are not meant to replace professional medical attention).\r\n

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Trauma to the Eye: If your baby is hit in the eye, rest a protective shield—such as a Styrofoam cup—on the bone around the eye. Make sure there is no pressure on the eye itself. Get immediate, professional medical attention.
Foreign Body: If an object has entered the eye, do not try to remove it; you may tear delicate tissue or force the object in deeper. Rest a protective shield—such as a Styrofoam cup—on the bone around the eye, making sure there is no pressure on the eye itself. Get immediate, professional medical attention.
Black Eye: If your baby is hit in the eye area, place an ice pack or cold cloth over the eye. Get immediate, professional medical attention.
Chemical Burn: If your baby's eye has sustained a chemical burn, rinse it with fresh water for at least 20 - 30 minutes. Hold their head under the tap or use a clean container to pour water into their eye. As you rinse, use your fingers to hold their eye open as wide as possible to ensure the greatest possible coverage. Get immediate, professional medical attention.

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How Can I Protect My Baby’s Eyes in the Sun?

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The sun’s rays can be tough on a baby's eyes. Take simple precautions to keep your baby's eyes safe outdoors:

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Sunglasses with UV protection will help to protect your baby’s eyes. Choose sunglasses with both UVA and UVB protection, to block both forms of ultraviolet rays.
A hat with a brim will help block indirect sun, which can come into the eyes around the edges of sunglasses.

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Protecting Your Child's Sight

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\r\n Despite all the things you do to keep your children safe – at home, on the playground, and in the car – accidents happen. Each year, thousands of children visit A & E and doctors’ offices with eye injuries.\r\n

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What Causes Most Children’s Eye Injuries?

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Most eye injuries come from a handful of causes. Toys that are used inappropriately; falling into or off of a piece of furniture; using tools and other objects incorrectly like running with scissors; aerosols and chemicals; and car accidents when children are not in safety seats.\r\n

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How Can You Teach Eye Safety Behaviour to Your Children?

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Children learn through imitation. Help your child learn healthy habits by demonstrating the right behaviour for safe play and work:

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Wear safety goggles when you work with chemicals and other hazardous materials.\r\n
Wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your eyes on bright, sunny days, or when snow or ice gleam in the sunlight.\r\n
Use goggles when you play sports like racquetball, basketball, tennis, and soccer and insist your child do the same.\r\n
Wash your hands often and keep your hands away from your eyes and nose to inhibit the spread of colds and other viruses.

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How Important Is Eye Safety?

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\r\n 40% of hospital admissions for eye injuries are related to sports. Here’s the scary part: 71% of these injuries happen to people under the age of 25. Teenagers are in the highest risk category for serious eye injuries, especially if you play racquet sports like tennis, badminton, or squash. The good news is that there are simple things you can do to protect your eyes.\r\n

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Do Goggles Really Help?

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Yes. And, goggles and shields do much more than protect your eyes from injury. Many goggles or safety glasses come with tints to reduce sun glare, light-filtering capabilities that make it easier to see certain colours (like yellow tennis balls), and polycarbonate lenses that stand up to sudden, sharp impact.\r\n

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If You Injure Your Eye

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Accidents happen. And because it’s not easy to judge the extent or severity of any eye injury, you should always get immediate, professional medical attention. It’s the best way to safeguard your vision.\r\n

\r\n The following symptoms may signal serious eye injury:

\r\n

Obvious eye pain or vision problem
Cut or torn eyelid
One eye that does not move as completely as the other
One eye that protrudes more than the other
Abnormal pupil size or shape
Blood in the white of the eye
Something embedded in the eye
Something under the eyelid that cannot be easily removed

\r\n

Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

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\r\n Sure, sunglasses look cool. But they also protect your eyes from harmful ultra violet (UV) rays to help prevent long-term damage. Choose sunglasses with both UVA and UVB protection, to block both forms of ultraviolet rays. A hat will help block indirect sun, which can come into the eyes around the edges of sunglasses.\r\n

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Eye Safety

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\r\n Most people know their eyesight is precious, but at this age they don’t think as much about protecting their eyes as they should. Eye safety means taking proactive measures to ensure the same quality of eyesight you currently enjoy.\r\n

\r\n If your eye is injured you should get immediate medical attention. 40% of hospital admissions for eye injuries are related to sports and 71% of those injuries happen to people under the age of 25.\r\n

\r\n

Sports Safety

\r\n

Goggles and shields do much more than protect your eyes from injury. Many goggles or safety glasses come with tints to reduce sun glare, light filtering capabilities that make it easier to see certain colours (like yellow tennis balls), and polycarbonate lenses that stand up to sudden, sharp impact. Choose the right goggles or shield for your sport.\r\n

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Work and Home Safety

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Two of the most common places for eye injuries to occur are home and work. Often, people in industrial settings are susceptible to projectiles that can injure the eye. And at home, many household cleaners can cause injury to the eyes – in addition to various home improvement projects that have a potential for danger. The best advice we can give is to use your common sense – if you’re working on a project that can cause harm to your eyes, make sure you’re safe with the proper protective eyewear.

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Sunglasses

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Sunglasses not only look good, they’re good for you. Protect yourself from harmful UV rays today to help prevent damage tomorrow.

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Choose sunglasses with both UVA and UVB protection
A hat will help block indirect sun, which can come into the eyes around the edges of sunglasses

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At the Computer

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\r\n Computer images are created from thousands of tiny dots – so there is no distinct image for your eye to actually focus on. You have to focus and refocus to keep the images sharp – and after two hours you end up with the same kind of repetitive stress in your eye muscles that the keyboard causes in your wrists.\r\n

\r\n It won't cause permanent damage, but here are some tips to minimize eye stress:\r\n

\r\n

Keep your computer screen within 51cm-61cm of your eyes
Keep the top of your computer screen slightly below eye level\r\n
Minimize the distance between your computer screen and any documents you need to reference while working\r\n
Use drops, to soothe irritated, dry eyes\r\n
Adjust lighting to minimize glare\r\n
Take a break every 15 minutes to focus on a distant object\r\n
Blink frequently\r\n

\r\n

First Aid

\r\n

If your eye is injured, it’s tempting to think you can just flush it out with some cold water and it will be fine. However, it’s not easy to judge the extent or severity of any eye injury, so you should always get immediate, professional medical attention.\r\n

\r\n Here are some steps you can take in the event of an eye injury:\r\n

\r\n Trauma to the Eye If you are hit in the eye, rest a protective shield – such as a Styrofoam cup – on the bone around your eye. Make sure there is no pressure on the eye itself. Seek immediate, professional medical attention.\r\n

\r\n Foreign Body If an object has entered your eye, do not try to remove it; you may tear delicate tissue or force the object in deeper. Rest a protective shield – again, like a Styrofoam cup – on the bone around your eye, making sure there is no pressure on the eye itself. Seek immediate professional medical attention.\r\n

\r\n Black Eye If you are hit in the eye area, place an ice pack or cold cloth over your eye. Get immediate, professional medical attention.\r\n

\r\n Chemical Burn If your eye has sustained a chemical burn, rinse it with fresh water for at least 20 to 30 minutes. Hold your head under the tap or use a clean container to pour water into your eye. As you rinse, use your fingers to hold your eye open as wide as possible and roll your eye to ensure the greatest possible coverage. Get immediate, professional medical attention.\r\n

\r\n

What To Do If You Injure Your Eye

\r\n

\r\n Even if you’re doing all the right things to keep your keep your eyes safe, accidents can happen. It’s not easy to judge the extent or severity of any eye injury, so you should always get immediate, professional medical attention.\r\n

\r\n The following symptoms may signal serious eye injury:\r\n

\r\n

Obvious eye pain or vision problem
Cut or torn eyelid
One eye that does not move as completely as the other
One eye that protrudes more than the other
Abnormal pupil size or shape
Blood in the white of the eye
Something imbedded in the eye

\r\n

Something under the eyelid that cannot be easily removed

\r\n

Healthy Eyes

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\r\n A regular eye exam is the best way to protect your eyesight – and an easy precaution to take. Here are more tips for maintaining proper eye health – as well as a healthy lifestyle.\r\n

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Are You in a High-Risk Category?

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A family history of eye disease or congenital eye disorders
Diabetes or hypertension
A visually demanding or eye-hazardous job

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If you are in a high-risk category, there are things you can do to help minimize your risk. Eat a balanced diet, avoid smoking, protect your eyes in the sun and get plenty of exercise.\r\n

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Eat a Balanced Diet

\r\n

As part of your healthy diet, choose foods rich in antioxidants, like Vitamins A and C; foods like leafy, green vegetables and fish. Many foods – especially fish – contain essential omega-3 fatty acids that are important to the health of the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision.\r\n

\r\n An inadequate intake of antioxidants, consumption of alcohol or saturated fats may create free-radical reactions that can harm the macula – the central part of the retina. High-fat diets can also cause deposits that constrict blood flow in the arteries. The eyes are especially sensitive to this, given the small size of the blood vessels that feed them.\r\n

\r\n

Don't Smoke

\r\n

Smoking exposes your eyes to high levels of oxidative stress. While the connection has not been clearly identified, it is known that smoking increases your risk for a variety of health conditions affecting the eye. Stopping smoking is difficult visit the Quitline site for some hints and tips.\r\n

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Exercise

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Exercise improves blood circulation, which improves oxygen levels to the eyes and the removal of toxins.\r\n

\r\n

Wear Sunglasses

\r\n

To protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) light, choose sunglasses with both UVA and UVB protection. Also, wearing a hat with a brim will greatly reduce the amount of UV radiation slipping around the side of your sunglasses.\r\n

\r\n

Pregnancy and Vision

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Some women experience changes in their eyesight when they are pregnant. Hormone levels during pregnancy can change the thickness of your cornea temporarily causing blurred vision. You may need different or additional vision correction for a few months. If you wear Contact Lenses, you may find that your eyes are uncomfortably dry during your pregnancy. The good news is that your eyes will return to normal shortly after your baby arrives.\r\n

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Maintaining Healthy Eyes

\r\n

\r\n A regular eye exam is the best way to protect your eyesight – and an easy precaution to take. Many sight-threatening diseases can be cured or slowed if caught early enough.\r\n

\r\n

How Important is Nutrition to Eye Health?

\r\n

Research indicates proper nutrition is critical to maintaining and preserving eye health for both men and women. As part of a healthy diet, choose foods rich in antioxidants, like vitamins A and C; foods like leafy, green vegetables; and fish. Many foods – especially fish – contain fruits-vegetables-lgessential omega-3 fatty acids that are important to the health of the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision.\r\n

\r\n An inadequate intake of antioxidants and consumption of alcohol and saturated fats may create free-radical reactions that can harm the macula. High-fat diets can also cause deposits that constrict blood flow in the arteries. The eyes are especially sensitive to this, given the small size of the blood vessels that feed them.\r\n

\r\n

What About Eye Vitamins?

\r\n

Dietary studies have shown the importance of nutrition in maintaining eye health. Many people are not getting high levels of many important eye nutrients through diet alone.\r\n

\r\n That's why Bausch + Lomb developed Ocuvite Eye Vitamin Adult 50+ Formula. This unique formula helps replenish essential eye nutrients that you can lose as you age.*\r\n

\r\n These soft gels contain 250 mg of Omega 3 and 5 mg of Lutein, along with anti-oxidant vitamins C and E; nutrients important to the health of the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision.\r\n

\r\n Because the body cannot manufacture Lutein or Omega-3 and ordinary multi-vitamins only contain a fraction of these nutrients, Ocuvite Eye Vitamin Adult 50+ Formula contains nutrients important to help maintain eye health.*\r\n

\r\n

Don't Smoke

\r\n

Smoking exposes your eyes to high levels of oxidative stress. While the connection to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has not been clearly identified, it is known that smoking increases your risk of developing AMD.\r\n

\r\n

Exercise

\r\n

Exercise improves blood circulation, which improves oxygen levels to the eyes and helps remove toxins.\r\n

\r\n

Wear Sunglasses

\r\n

Being outdoors in the sun can feel wonderful – but it can be tough on your eyes. Fortunately, there's an easy solution: sunglasses. Be sure to choose a pair that can block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Also, a hat with a brim will reduce the amount of UV radiation slipping around the side of your sunglasses.\r\n

\r\n

Computer Use

\r\n

Computer images are created from thousands of tiny dots – so there is no distinct image for your eye to focus on. You have to focus and refocus to keep the images sharp – and after two hours you can end up with the same kind of repetitive stress in your eye muscles that the keyboard causes in your wrists. You can reduce the impact of computer eyestrain by following a few simple rules:\r\n

\r\n

Keep your computer screen within 40 -50cm of your eyes
Keep the top of your computer screen slightly below eye level
Minimise the distance between your computer screen and any documents you need to reference while working
Adjust lighting to minimise glare on the screen
Blink frequently
Take a break every 15 minutes to focus on a distant object
Use drops, to soothe irritated, dry eyes

\r\n

Eye Injuries

\r\n

If your eye is injured, it is tempting to think that you can just flush it out with some cold water and it will be fine. However, it is not easy to judge the extent or severity of any eye injury, so you should always get immediate, professional medical attention. It is the best way to safeguard your vision. Here are some symptoms that may signal serious eye injury:\r\n

\r\n

Obvious eye pain or vision problems
Cut or torn eyelid
One eye that does not move as completely as the other
One eye that protrudes more than the other
Abnormal pupil size or shape
Blood in the white of the eye
Something embedded in the eye
Something under the eyelid that cannot be easily removed

\r\n

60s+ Eye Health

\r\n

\r\n A regular eye exam is the best way to protect your eyesight – and an easy precaution to take. Another way to safeguard your vision is through proper eye nutrition.\r\n

\r\n

Nutrition is a Key Component of Eye Health?

\r\n

As part of an eye-healthy diet, choose foods rich in antioxidants, like vitamins A and C, such as leafy, green vegetables and fish. Many foods – especially fish – contain essential omega-3 fatty acids that are important to the health of the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision.\r\n

\r\n An inadequate intake of antioxidants, as well as over consumption of alcohol and saturated fats may create free-radical reactions that can harm the macula. High-fat diets can also cause deposits that constrict blood flow in the arteries. The eyes are especially sensitive to this, given the small size of the blood vessels that feed them.\r\n

\r\n

What If Diet Just Isn’t Enough?

\r\n

Studies indicate that proper nutrition is important to maintaining eye health. As we age, our eyes may not get enough nutrition through diet alone.\r\n

\r\n

Does Smoking Affect The Eyes Too?

\r\n

Smoking exposes your eyes to high levels of oxidative stress. While the connection has not been clearly identified, it’s a fact that smoking increases your risk of developing a variety of conditions that affect eye health.\r\n

\r\n

Exercise

\r\n

Exercise is important because it improves blood circulation, which, in turn, improves oxygen levels to the eyes and the removal of toxins.\r\n

\r\n

Wear Sunglasses

\r\n

Being outdoors on a sunny day feels wonderful – but it can be tough on your eyes. The solution? Wear sunglasses that block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Also, a hat with a brim will reduce the amount of UV radiation slipping around the side of your sunglasses.\r\n

\r\n

At the Computer

\r\n

After two hours of staring at a computer screen, you can end up with the same kind of repetitive stress in your eye muscles that a keyboard senior-computercauses in your wrists. Here are a few tips to help reduce the impact of computer eyestrain:\r\n

\r\n

Keep your computer screen within 40 -50cm of your eyes
Keep the top of your computer screen slightly below eye level
Minimise the distance between your computer screen and any documents you need to reference while working
Adjust lighting to minimise glare on the screen
Blink frequently
Take a break every 15 minutes to focus on a distant object

\r\n

Eye Injuries

\r\n

If your eye is injured, you should always get immediate, professional medical attention. It’s simply the best way to safeguard your vision. Here are some symptoms that may signal a serious eye injury:\r\n

\r\n

Obvious eye pain or vision problems
Cut or torn eyelid
One eye that does not move as completely as the other
One eye that protrudes more than the other
Abnormal pupil size or shape
Blood in the white of the eye
Something embedded in the eye
Something under the eyelid that cannot be easily removed

\r\n

Keeping your Eyes Healthy\r\n

\r\n

\r\n It is important that your eyes stay healthy because you’ll need good vision for just about every activity you choose—and you want to keep your 20/20 vision for many years to come. When you see well, you can perform well—on the ball field, in class, behind the wheel or at your desk. That’s why it’s important to take a few simple steps to make sure you keep your eyesight at its best.\r\n

\r\n Just like you visit the dentist to maintain your teeth, the best protection for your vision is through regular professional eye examinations. You may be at special risk for eye problems if there is a family history of eye disease. Of course, if you notice a change in your vision —or your eye is injured in any way— you should contact your eye care professional.\r\n

\r\n

What Can I Do To Help My Eyes?

\r\n

\r\n There are many things you can do to prevent injuries and maintain eye health during your teen years. Eating the right foods, not smoking, limiting your computer time, and wearing protective eye wear during sports are important things you can do. Learn more:

\r\n

Eat foods rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. A healthy balanced diet containing a wide selection of fruits, nuts, and crunchy vegetables are important for healthy eyes.
Avoid junk food - An unhealthy diet high in fat can cause deposits that constrict blood flow in the arteries. The eyes are especially sensitive to this, given the small size of the blood vessels that feed them.
Exercise improves blood circulation, which improves oxygen levels to the eyes and the removal of toxins.
Get a good night’s sleep. It’s tough to fit everything into your schedule, but you’ll feel the difference when you get the sleep you need. You’ll look great, you’ll perform better in class and on the go—and good rest will support the health of your eyes.\r\n

\r\n

Wash your hands\r\n

\r\n

Keeping your hands clean becomes more important than ever when it comes to your eyes, especially if you’re a Contact Lens wearer. When you touch your eye, whatever is on your fingers goes right onto your eye’s surface. This is one way that people catch colds, by rubbing their eyes while they have cold virus germs on their hands.\r\n

\r\n Some germs and bacteria that come from your hands can cause eye infections, like bacterial conjunctivitis. Before you touch your eye—and especially before you put in or remove a contact lens—wash your hands with a mild soap and dry with a lint-free towel.

\r\n

Hairspray and Cosmetics

\r\n

Here are some simple rules to help you keep your eyes safe while you’re working on your look.

\r\n

If you wear contact lenses, be sure to put them in after you use your hairspray.
Put in your contacts before applying your make-up, to avoid contaminating your lenses with the residue from foundation or powder on your fingers. Of course, it’s also much easier to apply your make-up when you can see clearly!
Lotions, powders and gels with bits of glitter look cool—but those tiny, shiny specks can get into your eyes and cause irritation and problems with your contact lenses. After applying glittery gel, be careful not to touch your eyes—and wash the glitter off your hands right away.\r\n

\r\n

On the Computer

\r\n

You’re doing most class assignments on a computer, looking at the screen for hours at a stretch. Once your homework is done, you’re IM-ing friends, chatting on Facebook, watching YouTube videos, or participating on your favourite discussion board. Maybe you’re watching TV or playing games on your Xbox or PS3.\r\n

\r\n All of these things take a toll on your eyes—and maybe you’ve already noticed that your eyes feel dry and gritty by the end of the day.\r\n

\r\n Here are some tips to help:\r\n

\r\n

Keep your computer screen within 50-60cm of your eye.
Keep the top of your computer screen slightly below eye level.
Minimise the distance between your computer screen and any documents you need to reference while working.
Adjust lighting to minimise glare on the screen.
Blink frequently.
Take a break every 15 minutes to focus on a distant object.
Use lubricating eye drops to soothe irritated, dry eyes.

\r\n

5 Activities to Avoid Dry Eye Problems in Winters

\r\n

The variation in the temperatures inside your home and outside during the winter season can not only render your skin dry. However, it can also cause dryness and discomfort in your eyes¹

\r\n

The weather in the winter season is known to reduce the moisture in your eyes, which causes eye irritation and creates a burning or itching sensation in the eyes². Remember, if you are dealing with any eye irritation, you should avoid rubbing your eyes as it can make things worse.

\r\n

Before we talk tips and tell you how to avoid dryness in the eyes, you must understand why winter weather can be harsh on your eyes.

\r\n

During winters, the temperature outside drops leading to dry cold air, whereas your indoor temperature is warm & dry due to heating devices².The exposure to cold and/or warm dry air causes the eye to get dehydrated and may give rise to symptoms such as:

\r\n

Scratching or burning sensation
Pain and redness of the eye
Blurred vision
Incidences of excess tears following very dry eye periods etc.

\r\n

To help you stay secure and keep your eyes healthy, here are some activities to avoid dryness problems in your eyes during winter:

\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\n

1. Avoid Resting/Sitting Directly In Front Of A Heat Source

\r\n

During the colder months², the warmth from a fireplace or a heater sure feels nice and cozy. However, the heat blowing onto your face is made up of dry air, which can dry out your eyes.

\r\n

A simple way to avoid eye dryness due to hot air is to make sure that you avoid sitting directly in front or too close to the heat source. It will keep your eyes naturally moist as now the dry, hot air won’t irritate your eyes.

\r\n

2. Avoid Scratching and Rubbing Your Eyes

\r\n

To rub your already irritated eyes is probably the worst thing to do. It sure is tempting to rub out any itch, but rubbing your eyes continuously can harm the thin blood vessels present in and around the eyes. You can also end up damaging your cornea in the process⁵.

\r\n

Alternatively, instead of vigorously rubbing your eyes, wash them with cold water. If the problem persists, consult with an eye care professional.

\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\n

3. Avoid Going Out Without UV Protection

\r\n

During the winter season, we enjoy the sun’s warmth. However, we tend to forget that excessive UV exposure through direct sunlight can increase the risk of developing cataracts and skin cancer⁶. Thus, it is recommended that you always use sunscreen and sunglasses if you plan to stay outdoors for long hours.

\r\n

If you reside in a place where it snows during winter, you can get excess UV exposure due to reflection from snowy surfaces, which can harm your skin as well as your eyes.

\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\n

4. Avoid Skipping Your Optometrist’s Appointment

\r\n

Arguably, eyes are one of the most sensitive body organs. Yet, when it comes to prioritizing eye health, we tend to make excuses until the condition worsens. Regular eye check-ups are a must if you wear eyeglasses or like wearing contact lenses. Even if you are not using any prescription visual aids, you must get your eyes checked regularly⁷.

\r\n

Suppose you experience dryness, irritation, and itchiness in your eyes due to the cold winter weather. In that case, you must consult an eye care professional immediately.

\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\n

5. Avoid Overusing Digital Devices

\r\n

Instead of keeping your eyes glued to laptops and other digital screens, take a break from them during winters. Refrain from sitting in front of a computer or spending hours over your smartphone for extended periods. Prolonged or extended exposure to digital screens is known to give rise to a syndrome known as Digital Eye Strain⁸.

\r\n

During the winters, your eyes are more prone to dryness due to the cold air. To top that, if you spend long hours in front of your television or computer screen during the holiday season, you need to make sure that you limit the time you spend using digital devices.

\r\n

At Bausch+Lomb, we are committed to delivering the best contact lenses wearing experience. Explore our range of contact lenses that are designed to provide superior vision and the highest possible comfort.

\r\n

You can also explore Bausch+Lomb’s Ultra Contact lenses that are specifically designed to alleviate lens-related dryness in the eyes. Ultra-Contact Lenses are made with MoistureSeal Technology and offer high moisture retainability, which means your eyes stay moist and healthy.

\r\n\r\n

\r\n

Finding the Right Contact Lens

\r\n

Wearing the right pair of contact lenses is imperative to maintain your eye health. Make sure that you consult with an optometrist first before choosing your contact lenses. You can discuss your digital screen exposure and get recommendations from your optometrist regarding the different types of contact lenses that can help you with dry eyes.

\r\n

Additionally, if you enjoy wearing contact lenses for the benefits they offer, remember to follow your contact lens wear and care regimen diligently as prescribed by your eye care specialist. Developing little habits protect you from long term severities.

\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\n

Explore Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

\r\n

Unlike bi-weekly, monthly, and annually disposable contact lenses, daily disposables contact lenses don’t demand regular cleaning and maintenance. You wear daily disposable contact lenses only once, meaning one time only, and then you dispose of them. When you are wearing your contact lenses again in the morning, you will be using a new and fresh pair.

\r\n

With daily disposable contact lenses, you don’t deal with any deposits and build-up, which means they are safe to use and reduced the chances of any eye infections⁹.

\r\n

Additionally, daily disposable contact lenses may deliver a more comfortable and fresh feeling experience all day long. You don’t spend any time handling your contact lenses, yet you enjoy the precise vision and keep your eyes healthy.

\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\n

Find the Best Contact Lenses

\r\n

Wearing contact lenses pose little to no threats if you know how to use them correctly, as advised by your eye care specialist. There’s no one-size-fits-all possibility when it comes to wearing contact lenses.

\r\n

Explore Bausch+Lomb’s Biotrue ONEday Daily disposable contact lenses that offer comfortable wear throughout the day.

\r\n

What’s more? Biotrue ONEday Daily disposables also provide UV protection against the harmful sun rays. Although, it is advised that you use sunglasses to double up your UV protection. Made with patented Bausch+Lomb’s HyperGel material, Biotrue ONEday disposable contact lenses empower you with consistently comfortable, precise, and clear vision.

\r\n

Depending on your lifestyle and vision requirements, you can explore different types of contact lenses and select one that suits you the best. Remember to get in touch with your eye care specialist first! \r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\nSources:
\r\n \r\n[1] https://www.uabmedicine.org/-/cold-weather-woes-and-dry-eyes
\r\n\r\n[2] & [3] https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/winter-dry-eye
\r\n\r\n[4] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/how-can-i-tell-whats-causing-my-dry-eye
\r\n\r\n[5] https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/corneal-conditions
\r\n\r\n[6] https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/effects-of-uv-radiation-on-eye-immune-system-and-skin
\r\n\r\n[7] https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/keep-your-eyes-healthy
\r\n\r\n[8] https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/dry-eye
\r\n\r\n[9] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8906382/\r\n

\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n

\r\n

5 Ways To Develop Smart Eye & Vision Care Habits Among Teenagers

\r\n

Teen years are a crucial phase in every young adult's life. It is in this phase that they lay down the foundation for their future. While teenagers work hard to perform well in studies, sports, and other activities, they can be complacent when it comes to taking care of their health.

\r\n

Parents, on the other hand, are aware of the importance of following healthy practices to keep fit, including the need for maintaining good vision. Teenagers must also learn the importance of practising healthy habits to keep their body and vision perfect for as long as possible. From following the right practices to knowing types of contact lenses they can use; teenagers must pay heed to their eye health.

\r\n

Accurate vision and good eye health will help your child in learning and performing better in studies and other areas. ¹ However, teenagers and college students can be most susceptible to vision disorders, and eye problems such as infections, sports injuries, and dry eyes from using digital devices for prolonged periods, which can cause them discomfort and distress in the long-run.

\r\n

If you have a teenager at home, then you must first help them understand the importance of healthy eyes. Apart from that, you can support and encourage them to develop healthy habits to protect their eyes and ensure healthy vision.

\r\n

Here are a few ways you can develop smart eye and vision care habits in your teenager:

\r\n

1. Engage in Outdoor Activities

\r\n

Since teenagers spend most of their time studying, reading, and looking up things on the internet, they mostly end up staying indoors. It may put them at an increased risk of developing near-sightedness, or myopia. Even during their free time, teens these days spend long hours on gadgets and digital devices, which again exposes their eyes to harmful digital rays. A study conducted in 2014 shows how there is worsening of eyesight for each year in a child's school life ².

\r\n

Also, a study by an Indian university showed how ~ 80 per cent students in an engineering and medical school experienced CVS (Computer Vision Syndrome). pProblems like eye redness, burning sensation, blurred vision and dry eyes were reported due to excessive use of digital devices³. To avoid eye strain, guide your child to practice eye exercises like the 20-20-20 rule

\r\n

How to practice the 20-20-20 rule eye exercise?

\r\n

Every 20 minutes look 20 feet away for about 20 seconds.

\r\n

Apart from this, you can also encourage them to try and voluntarily blink more as blinking is linked with maintaining eye moisture. When continuously working on digital devices, our eye blinking rate decreases which may lead to eye irritation and dry eyes due to digital strain

\r\n

Another research shows that spending more time outdoors can minimize the progression of myopia and help in protecting eye vision ⁴. Therefore, encourage your children to head out of the home whenever possible. Being physically active is not only good for the eyes, but your child's overall health too.

\r\n

2. Wash Hands Frequently

\r\n

A common disease of the eyes is Conjunctivitis ⁵, which is also called pink eye. A highly contagious disease, it often spreads quickly in schools where children come in close contact with one another. That is why teenagers should develop the habit of washing hands with soap frequently to get rid of any such virus or bacteria that may have gotten dispersed into their hands. Recommend your teens to unnecessarily avoid touching or rubbing their eyes.

\r\n

Similarly, if your teens wear prescribed contact lenses, you must ensure that they follow their contact lens wear and care schedule thoroughly. Contact lenses do offer their benefits, but if not well handled properly as advised by an eye care professional, could lead to eye infections. Although such eye infections can be easily treated, in some cases, it can have severe implications.

\r\n

3, Avoid Sharing Makeup

\r\n

Teenage girls generally share makeup and accessories with their siblings and friends. Doing so may seem harmless, but it could actually spread certain infections. . As bacteria can grow on any moist surface, creamy eye makeup may become a breeding ground for them. To stay safe, educate your teen on how infections can spread through sharing makeup and advise them not to practice that.

\r\n

Additionally, if your teens like wearing contact lenses, strictly advise them to not share their contact lenses with anyone. Any negligence can lead to severe infections and become a painful experience. Reinstate their belief in 'Prevention is better than cure.'

\r\n\r\n

4. Proper Eye Protection During Sports

\r\n\r\n

Research shows how nearly every 1 in 18 athletes is likely to get injured while playing sports High-risk sports like basketball, baseball and football involve the risk of common injuries. Share with your teens how even a small injury can lead to damage of some eye nerves or muscles. Advise and enable them to always wear proper eye gear to protect their eyes. Many athletes wear polycarbonate sports glasses to prevent stray balls or elbows from damaging their eyes.⁶

\r\n

Avoid water with Contact Lenses and Lens Care Products. Acanthamoeba keratitis is a severe eye infection caused by Acanthamoeba, a parasite that lives in water ⁷. One of the significant factors that increase the risk of such a disease is wearing contact lenses in the water while swimming or taking a bath. Tell your teenagers not to practice wearing contact lenses while swimming or showering to steer clear of this dangerous infection. In case of unavoidable cricumstances (e.g High refractive error) one may use a daily disposable contact lens along with a protective swimming goggles. Thees lenses should be discarded immediately once the user is out of the pool.

\r\n

Additionally, guide your teens to never use water or any other form of liquid except their recommended lens care solution for cleaning or storing their contact lenses. They must only use sterile disinfecting solutions for their contact lenses and always use a clean contact lens storage case to store their contact lenses.

\r\n \r\n

5. Help Them Develop Sound Eye Care Habits

\r\n

Maintaining good vision is crucial for your child's overall physical development.⁸ For the same, you should also take your teenagers for regular eye exams and vision screenings. Regular eye examinations, at least once a year, or as advised by your optometrist helps in detecting and correcting eye problems early on which can save your teenager from facing or suffering from any serious issues⁹.

\r\n

If your teenager is already using prescription lenses or wants to start wearing contact lenses instead of spectacles, consult with an optometrist to find and choose the best types of contact lenses. Opt for contact lenses that provide the benefits of convenience, comfort, vision correction and a natural peripheral view. You can explore Bausch+Lomb's range of contact lenses to discover the various types of contact lenses and buy one that befits your teenager's needs. Select from a range of contact lenses that are designed for the youth like our Bausch+Lomb iConnect monthly contact lenses that are very affordable and offers superior visual acuity. Finally, remember to encourage your child to protect their eyes so that they can continue to enjoy a healthy and clear vision always!\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\nSources:
\r\n\r\n[1] https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-health-for-life/school-aged-vision?sso=y
\r\n\r\n[2] https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/increased-nearsightedness-linked-to-years-in-schoo
\r\n\r\n[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24761234/
\r\n\r\n[4] https://www.aao.org/clinical-education
\r\n\r\n[5] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/pink-eye-conjunctivitis-causes
\r\n\r\n[6] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/children-eye-screening
\r\n\r\n[7] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/four-hidden-signs-of-vision-problems-in-kids
\r\n\r\n[8] https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/vision-care.htm\r\n

\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n

\r\n

5 Ways To Develop Smart Eye & Vision Care Habits Among Teenagers

\r\n

Teen years are a crucial phase in every young adult's life. It is in this phase that they lay down the foundation for their future. While teenagers work hard to perform well in studies, sports, and other activities, they can be complacent when it comes to taking care of their health.

\r\n

Parents, on the other hand, are aware of the importance of following healthy practices to keep fit, including the need for maintaining good vision. Teenagers must also learn the importance of practising healthy habits to keep their body and vision perfect for as long as possible. From following the right practices to knowing types of contact lenses they can use; teenagers must pay heed to their eye health.

\r\n

Accurate vision and good eye health will help your child in learning and performing better in studies and other areas. ¹ However, teenagers and college students can be most susceptible to vision disorders, and eye problems such as infections, sports injuries, and dry eyes from using digital devices for prolonged periods, which can cause them discomfort and distress in the long-run.

\r\n

If you have a teenager at home, then you must first help them understand the importance of healthy eyes. Apart from that, you can support and encourage them to develop healthy habits to protect their eyes and ensure healthy vision.

\r\n

Here are a few ways you can develop smart eye and vision care habits in your teenager:

\r\n

1. Engage in Outdoor Activities

\r\n

Since teenagers spend most of their time studying, reading, and looking up things on the internet, they mostly end up staying indoors. It may put them at an increased risk of developing near-sightedness, or myopia. Even during their free time, teens these days spend long hours on gadgets and digital devices, which again exposes their eyes to harmful digital rays. A study conducted in 2014 shows how there is worsening of eyesight for each year in a child's school life ².

\r\n

Also, a study by an Indian university showed how ~ 80 per cent students in an engineering and medical school experienced CVS (Computer Vision Syndrome). pProblems like eye redness, burning sensation, blurred vision and dry eyes were reported due to excessive use of digital devices³. To avoid eye strain, guide your child to practice eye exercises like the 20-20-20 rule

\r\n

How to practice the 20-20-20 rule eye exercise?

\r\n

Every 20 minutes look 20 feet away for about 20 seconds.

\r\n

Apart from this, you can also encourage them to try and voluntarily blink more as blinking is linked with maintaining eye moisture. When continuously working on digital devices, our eye blinking rate decreases which may lead to eye irritation and dry eyes due to digital strain

\r\n

Another research shows that spending more time outdoors can minimize the progression of myopia and help in protecting eye vision ⁴. Therefore, encourage your children to head out of the home whenever possible. Being physically active is not only good for the eyes, but your child's overall health too.

\r\n

2. Wash Hands Frequently

\r\n

A common disease of the eyes is Conjunctivitis ⁵, which is also called pink eye. A highly contagious disease, it often spreads quickly in schools where children come in close contact with one another. That is why teenagers should develop the habit of washing hands with soap frequently to get rid of any such virus or bacteria that may have gotten dispersed into their hands. Recommend your teens to unnecessarily avoid touching or rubbing their eyes.

\r\n

Similarly, if your teens wear prescribed contact lenses, you must ensure that they follow their contact lens wear and care schedule thoroughly. Contact lenses do offer their benefits, but if not well handled properly as advised by an eye care professional, could lead to eye infections. Although such eye infections can be easily treated, in some cases, it can have severe implications.

\r\n

3, Avoid Sharing Makeup

\r\n

Teenage girls generally share makeup and accessories with their siblings and friends. Doing so may seem harmless, but it could actually spread certain infections. . As bacteria can grow on any moist surface, creamy eye makeup may become a breeding ground for them. To stay safe, educate your teen on how infections can spread through sharing makeup and advise them not to practice that.

\r\n

Additionally, if your teens like wearing contact lenses, strictly advise them to not share their contact lenses with anyone. Any negligence can lead to severe infections and become a painful experience. Reinstate their belief in 'Prevention is better than cure.'

\r\n\r\n

4. Proper Eye Protection During Sports

\r\n\r\n

Research shows how nearly every 1 in 18 athletes is likely to get injured while playing sports High-risk sports like basketball, baseball and football involve the risk of common injuries. Share with your teens how even a small injury can lead to damage of some eye nerves or muscles. Advise and enable them to always wear proper eye gear to protect their eyes. Many athletes wear polycarbonate sports glasses to prevent stray balls or elbows from damaging their eyes.⁶

\r\n

Avoid water with Contact Lenses and Lens Care Products. Acanthamoeba keratitis is a severe eye infection caused by Acanthamoeba, a parasite that lives in water ⁷. One of the significant factors that increase the risk of such a disease is wearing contact lenses in the water while swimming or taking a bath. Tell your teenagers not to practice wearing contact lenses while swimming or showering to steer clear of this dangerous infection. In case of unavoidable cricumstances (e.g High refractive error) one may use a daily disposable contact lens along with a protective swimming goggles. Thees lenses should be discarded immediately once the user is out of the pool.

\r\n

Additionally, guide your teens to never use water or any other form of liquid except their recommended lens care solution for cleaning or storing their contact lenses. They must only use sterile disinfecting solutions for their contact lenses and always use a clean contact lens storage case to store their contact lenses.

\r\n \r\n

5. Help Them Develop Sound Eye Care Habits

\r\n

Maintaining good vision is crucial for your child's overall physical development.⁸ For the same, you should also take your teenagers for regular eye exams and vision screenings. Regular eye examinations, at least once a year, or as advised by your optometrist helps in detecting and correcting eye problems early on which can save your teenager from facing or suffering from any serious issues⁹.

\r\n

If your teenager is already using prescription lenses or wants to start wearing contact lenses instead of spectacles, consult with an optometrist to find and choose the best types of contact lenses. Opt for contact lenses that provide the benefits of convenience, comfort, vision correction and a natural peripheral view. You can explore Bausch+Lomb's range of contact lenses to discover the various types of contact lenses and buy one that befits your teenager's needs. Select from a range of contact lenses that are designed for the youth like our Bausch+Lomb iConnect monthly contact lenses that are very affordable and offers superior visual acuity. Finally, remember to encourage your child to protect their eyes so that they can continue to enjoy a healthy and clear vision always!\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\nSources:
\r\n\r\n[1] https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-health-for-life/school-aged-vision?sso=y
\r\n\r\n[2] https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/increased-nearsightedness-linked-to-years-in-schoo
\r\n\r\n[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24761234/
\r\n\r\n[4] https://www.aao.org/clinical-education
\r\n\r\n[5] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/pink-eye-conjunctivitis-causes
\r\n\r\n[6] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/children-eye-screening
\r\n\r\n[7] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/four-hidden-signs-of-vision-problems-in-kids
\r\n\r\n[8] https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/vision-care.htm\r\n

\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n

\r\n

Reduce Your Chances Of Weak Eyesight By Following These Steps

\r\n

Weak eyesight and blindness due to various underlying eye conditions make for some of the most common public health issue in India ¹. In today's day and age, we try to keep up with our busy lifestyle and work towards building a healthy body. In the process, however, we sometimes forget the importance of healthy eyes.

\r\n

There are several reasons your vision may weaken or get impaired. Thus, it would help if you made conscious efforts to keep your eyes in good health. You can follow these five ways to improve your eyesight and overall eye health without using corrective glasses.

\r\n

1. Quit Smoking

\r\n

Smoking tobacco is directly associated with many adverse health effects, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). ² ³ Research indicates that smokers are more likely to develop AMD than non-smokers. Smoking tobacco also raises your risk of developing cataract. If you need help quitting, you can get in touch with a physician.

\r\n \r\n

2. Eat Better Foods

\r\n

Vitamin deficiency may adversely affect retinal function. ⁴ Thus, eating foods rich in Vitamin A such as carrots and leafy green vegetables can help improve your eyes' health. Research shows that people who have a high intake of vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 DHA and EPA fatty acids through their diet are less likely to suffer through early and advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD).\r\n

3. Regular Eye Examination

\r\n

You must get regular eye exams, at least once a year, even if you show no signs of eye disease. ⁵ Early detection and treatment of eye conditions are crucial in keeping your eyes healthy. Based on the eye test results, your optometrist may prescribe the necessary follow-up exams and remedies to alleviate the symptoms of any eye problems.

\r\n

Regular eye examinations become crucial if anyone in your family has a history of eye conditions, diabetes, or high blood pressure. ⁶ If that's the case, you must consult with an eye care professional to find out how frequently you need to get your eyes examined. Several major eye conditions, such as glaucoma and AMD, if diagnosed early, can be more successfully and efficiently treated. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to a partial or total loss of vision.

\r\n\r\n

4. Contact Lens Care

\r\n\r\n

If you wear contact lenses, you must thoroughly follow your eye care practitioner's instructions regarding the wear and care of contact lenses. ⁷ You must follow the instructions and recommendations to reduce the risk of developing eye issues such as corneal ulcers, eye pain and sometimes even blindness. These recommendations include:

\r\n

Avoid sleeping while wearing contact lenses
Not using water instead of lens care solution,
Never wearing contacts lense / lens care product that are expired,
Not using disposable contact lenses beyond their prescribed duration

\r\n\r\n

5. Be Aware Of Eye Strain

\r\n

Using digital devices such as computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones can lead to eye strain, also known as Digital Eye Strain (DES) ⁸ or Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Since you cannot avoid using digital devices altogether, while working with digital screens, you can practice the 20-20-20 Rule.

\r\n\r\n

The 20-20-20 Rule

\r\n

While working on your computer, or tablets, or any other digital device, every 20 minutes, look away from the screen to a distant object kept 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps relieve your eyes of stress. In case the eye strain persists, it can be a sign of numerous different eye conditions, such as presbyopia, or dry eyes.

\r\n

Living a healthy lifestyle and practising healthy habits protect you from the risk of developing long term health conditions. Be mindful and do the best you can.

\r\n

Contact lens Options for Lens Related dryness

\r\n

Consult with an eye care specialist to determine why you have eye strain and receive appropriate treatment to prevent further issues. In case you already are a contact lenses wearer or want to switch to contact lenses, check with your eye care practitioner to purchase contact lenses which reduces lens related dryness such as the Bausch+Lomb Ultra Contact lenses that are specially designed to prevent lens related dry eyes and offer superior visual acuity for an extended duration.

\r\n

Bausch+Lomb Ultra Contact lenses are developed with MoistureSeal technology that retains up to 95% moisture, higher breathability, and a thin, comfortable lens that prevents lens dehydration, and discomfort. The best part – You can comfortably wear the Bausch+Lomb Ultra Contact Lenses for up to 16 hours a day, all without having dryness feeling in eyes!⁹

\r\n

Choose Your Contact Lens Provider Carefully

\r\n

Before making any decision about switching to contact lenses from eyeglasses, and vice-versa, you must consult with an optometrist to ensure that you get the best of vision care.

\r\n

At Bausch+Lomb, we strive to provide the best quality contact lenses and wearing experience. After carefully analyzing the options you have, make sure you also consider the wearing time of contact lenses. You can pick among annual or disposable contact lenses such as monthly and daily disposable contact lenses, which require you to maintain them by cleaning regularly.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\nSources:
\r\n\r\n[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4064227/#:~:text=Chennai%20is%20one%20of%20the,%25%20CI%203.2%E2%80%934.4%25).
\r\n\r\n[2] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/smokers
\r\n\r\n[3] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration
\r\n\r\n[4] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/diet-nutrition
\r\n\r\n[5] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/what-is-an-ophthalmologist
\r\n\r\n[6] https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/eye-exams?sso=y
\r\n\r\n[7] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/contact-lens-care
\r\n\r\n[8] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/computer-usage
\r\n\r\n[9] Data on file Bausch & Lomb Incorporated
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5 Steps To Ensure Good Eyes If You Spend Considerable Time Under The Sun

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On sunny days, all of us love to spend time outside – enjoy a chilled Slurpee or take selfies with friends huddled along the beach. While you enjoy the summer, don’t forget to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from the heat and glare of the sun.

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Drinking adequate water and using sunscreen regularly are the easiest ways to keep your skin protected and your body well hydrated. But what about your eyes? When it comes to eye protection during the summer season, we usually tend to overlook it. ¹ However, eyes are sensitive organs and can be quite vulnerable to sun rays.

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Safe Eyes All Summer

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It is essential to practice good habits to maintain your eye health. One of the easiest ways to keep your eyes protected during summer is to keep them covered. You can either use sunglasses and wrap a headscarf or pair your sunglasses with a cap or hat to safeguard your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun.

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To help you enjoy your summer safely, we have listed five ways you can make sure that your eyes stay protected from the sun during summer –

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1. Be Mindful and Pack Smartly

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Going out in the sun during summer ², you are exposed to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Thus, it would help if you packed everyday essentials before leaving the house to keep yourself protected.

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For instance, If it is a day outing, carry your sunglasses, sunscreen, scarf or brimmed hat, and water bottle. Doing so, you will know you are keeping your eyes, skin, and body protected so you can enjoy your outing.

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2. Choose the Right Sunglasses

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To safeguard your eyes from the harmful sun rays and its glares, you need to be careful while choosing the type of eye shades. ³ There are three types of Ultraviolet (UV) radiations:

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UV-C: Absorbed by the ozone layer and do not reach the earth’s surface
UV-A& UV-B: Reach the earth’s surface across open skies and through reflections in our surrounding environments such as concrete buildings, or water fountains, or sand in a beach all reflect UV-A and UV-B rays

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Go for premium quality sunglasses that offer UV protection by blocking harmful UV rays so that you have a pleasant experience in the sun.

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3. Use The Right Contact Lenses

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Wearing contact lenses feels excellent as they offer a clear and convenient natural peripheral vision. But what about wearing contact lenses during the summers? Are you using the right types of contact lenses? The ones that can block UV rays? Yes, special contact lenses are specifically designed to offer eye protection against harmful UV rays.

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⁴ According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the classification of contact lenses that provide protection against UV rays can be divided into two categories: Class I and Class II.

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Class I UV- Absorber: Recommended for high-level exposure environments like beaches or high altitude areas such as mountains. Contact lenses in this category absorb nearly 90% UV-A and almost 99% of UV-B rays.
Class II UV- Absorber: Recommended for everyday general purposes such as office wear or personal wear. Contact lenses in this category absorb more than 50% of UV-A and 95% of UV-B rays.

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Remember to consult with your optometrist to find suitable options for contact lenses that protect against UV rays. To include an extra-added layer of protection, you can pair your UV protection contact lenses with UV-blocking sunglasses.

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4. Practice Eating Healthier Meals Everyday

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Practicing to eat a healthy and balanced diet can not only significantly improve your eye health ⁵ but also your overall health. Create a diet regimen that includes low fats and more significant portions of fruits, green vegetables, and whole grains. In case you are a non-vegetarian, you can include large portions of food rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and tuna in your diet. Some essential nutrients that are good for your eyes:

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Vitamin A (Sweet Potato, Apricots)
Vitamin C (Oranges, Red Bell Peppers)
Vitamin E (Avocados, Almonds, Sunflower Seeds)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Lutein and Zeaxanthin (Leafy Vegetables Like Kale, Spinach)
Beans and Zinc (Oysters, Kidney Beans, Poultry)

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5. Get Your Eyes Regularly Examined

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Whether you believe you have perfectly healthy eyes or not ⁶, you must get your eyes thoroughly tested by an eye care professional at least once a year. Apart from treating eye problems, a thorough and comprehensive vision screening and test performed by an eye care practitioner can help you stay updated on your eye health and also prevent any severe eye conditions.

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Whether you like wearing contact lenses or eyeglasses, before you make any change to your wear and care schedule, make sure you discuss it with your eye care practitioner and follow their recommendation.

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For Contact Lenses Wearers: Research, Consult and Follow

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When you start a new habit or try to change an old one, it might seem a bit challenging, but once you do your research, read its benefits and consult with a specialist, it is pretty easy to practice healthy habits and follow safety measures. The same goes for wearing contact lenses and other visual aids. Before you make any decisions about wearing contact lenses or switching to other types of contact lenses, always consult with an eye care professional first.

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At Bausch+Lomb, we provide different types of contact lenses for various vision conditions, including lenses to reduce the end of the day dryness, to enable you with superior comfort and visual acuity. Our range consists of multiple types of contact lenses made with unique materials that prevent lens dehydration and provide all-day comfort. Bausch+Lomb Ultra Contact Lenses, designed with patented MoistureSeal Technology, retains almost 95% of its moisture to enable comfortable wear of up to 16 hours in a day*.

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Similarly, we also have unique contact lenses, like the Biotrue ONEday lenses, daily disposable contact lenses made with HyperGel material that retains up to 98% moisture and offers UV protection to your eyes. So, explore our collection of different types of contact lenses and start your journey towards better vision today!\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\nSources:
\r\n\r\n[1] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/summer-sun-eye-safety
\r\n\r\n[2] http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/uv-protection/sun-initiative?sso=y
\r\n\r\n[3] https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/uv-protection/uv-protection-with-contact-lenses
\r\n\r\n[4] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/fabulous-foods-your-eyes
\r\n\r\n[5] https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/comprehensive-eye-and-vision-examination/recommended-examination-frequency-for-pediatric-patients-and-adults\r\n

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3 Specifically Designed Contact Lenses For Patients Aged 40 And Above

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In today’s digital age, work demands us to sit in front of a computer or laptop for long hours. ¹ This increased exposure to digital devices for hours at a stretch can adversely affect your eyes. According to studies, nearly 50% of computer users experience symptoms related to Digital Eye Strain (DES).¹

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While it isn’t possible to avoid digital exposure altogether in today’s tech-driven world, a smarter way for contact lens users having high digital exposure would be to start wearing contact lenses that help alleviate the symptoms of lens dryness. These types of contact lenses help maintain eye moisture and prevent dryness in the eyes.

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Easy Eye Care Tips For People With Long Computer Hours

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While working on your digital devices such as computers, for long hours, you stare at your digital screens all day and tend to blink less1, which leads to eye dryness and discomfort. If you need to work on your computer for long hours, you can follow these eye care tips to relieve eye strain:

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1. Blink As Often As Possible

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When you stay focused during work, it can be easy to forget blinking while looking at a digital screen. It may sound incredulous, but you must consciously try to blink more. Doing so helps increase the production of tears in your eyes, keeping your eyes and contact lenses moist and supple. ²Make a note to blink voluntarily as often as possible to keep your eyes in good health.

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2. Adjust Your Seating Arrangement

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When working with computers for long hours, you must make sure that you have a comfortable seating space. For example, while you are seated, you should be staring right at and above your computer if you look ahead. ³ Adjusting your seat and screen properly helps not just your eyes but also your body posture, including your neck and back, to stay in a comfortable position as you work all week.

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3. Look Away From The Screen

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For those with extended computer hours, follow the 20-20-20 rule ³ as it is easy to follow the exercise. To practice the 20-20-20 rule, you need to take a break every 20 minutes to look 20 feet away from your computer for 20 seconds to help alleviate eye strain.

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4. Reduce Glare

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Exposure to bright screens for prolonged periods causes eye strain and irritation.3 You must position your computer screen away from any outdoor lights such as sunlight coming in from the windows. Similarly, if your room is too dark, it can increase the amount of glare reflecting from your computer screen. Apart from reducing any outdoor glares, you can also adjust the display settings on your computer to softer hues for a better viewing experience.

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5. Keep Yourself Well-Hydrated

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Drinking water adequately can help maintain not just your eye health but also your overall well-being. ⁴ Make sure to drink at least three litres of water a day to keep your body and eyes well hydrated. A simple way to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day is to sip on water from time to time.

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We hope these tips help you improve your eye health. Since you cannot avoid using or working on digital devices, you must follow safety measures and practice healthy habits to better your eyes.

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Contact Lenses For People With Long Computer Hours

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When you spend long hours working on your computer (with or without wearing contact lenses), you may experience dryness in your eyes due to a reduced rate of blinking. ⁵ Blinking is known to keep the front surface of the eyes moist, and when you blink less, your eyes may begin to feel strained and dry, causing blurry vision.

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If you are accustomed to wearing contact lenses, or are new to it, or want to start wearing contact lenses, we recommend you consult with an optometrist regarding contact lenses designed to work for people with higher digital device usage. Not all types of contact lenses are designed to maintain the lens moisture, so you start wearing contact lenses that are specifically designed to be used during heavy digital device usage.

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At Bausch+Lomb, we provide suitable, all-inclusive eye care solutions so that you never have to compromise with sub-par vision. We also offer specially developed contact lenses for DIgital generation, such as the Bausch+Lomb Ultra Contact Lenses that are designed with MoistureSeal technology, which retains up to 95% moisture to enable comfortable wear for up to 16 hours in a day*. Visit our website or connect with us to begin your journey towards healthier eyes today!

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\r\n\r\n\r\nSources:
\r\n \r\n[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6020759/
\r\n\r\n[2] https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/protecting-your-vision/computer-vision-syndrome
\r\n\r\n[3] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/computer-usage
\r\n\r\n[4] https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/dry-eye
\r\n\r\n[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30663136/\r\n

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