Ramadan is a month of spiritual introspection, self-control, and fasting from sunrise to sunset. While fasting has various health benefits, it is equally important to protect one’s eyes since dehydration as well as changes in lifestyle can impair vision and eye comfort..
Hydration: A Key to Healthy Eyes
Dehydration during fasting can cause dry eyes, eye irritation, and fatigue. Drinking sufficient water at Suhoor and Iftar is essential. Hydrating foods such as cucumbers, oranges, and watermelons can also help keep the eyes moist.
Dealing with Dry Eyes
For individuals with dry eyes, fasting can exacerbate symptoms. Lubricating eye drops may help, particularly for individuals who sit for many hours in front of screens or for people who wear contact lenses. She also suggests observing the 20-20-20 rule to minimize digital eye strain—every 20 minutes, shift gaze to something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Contact Lens Care
Prolonged wear of contact lenses while fasting can be painful. If you wear contact lenses, make sure you clean them well, and change to daily disposables during Ramadan. If dryness occurs, switch to glasses.
Allergy and Eye Protection
With Ramadan usually falling in line with changing seasons, allergies may cause watery and itchy eyes. Don’t rub your eyes, as this can aggravate irritation and even lead to infection. Apply prescribed anti-allergy drops for relief.
A Nutrient-Rich Diet for Better Vision
Good nutrition is essential to eye care. Include foods that are high in Vitamin A (carrots, spinach), Omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseeds), and antioxidants (berries, nuts) in Suhoor and Iftar. Cutting down on salt also keeps water retention at bay, which sometimes leads to puffiness around the eyes.
Eye Care during Taraweeh and Prayers
Prolonged hours of reading and praying can cause eye strain at times. Make sure to have proper lighting while reading and take breaks of a few minutes to relax your eyes. In case you find your vision blurred, see an ophthalmologist at once.
Regular Eye Checkups
For individuals with existing eye diseases like diabetes, glaucoma, or dry eye syndrome, regular follow-up visits are indispensable. Diabetics, more than anyone else, must keep an eye on their eye health throughout Ramadan because changing blood sugar levels can play havoc with vision.
Conclusion
By practicing these easy and effective eye care tips, you can have a healthy and comfortable Ramadan. Prioritizing eye health while fasting guarantees good vision and general well-being. If you feel any uneasiness, don’t wait and consult professionals.
For professional eye consultations, Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, Srinagar provides expert care for all eye problems. Drink plenty of water, eat well, and take good care of your eyes this Ramadan!
(The Author is Senior Ophthalmologist, Cataract, Pediatric & Squint Surgeon at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, Srinagar)
