The prevalence of non-communicable eye diseases is rising worldwide, especially in India. According to the findings of several worldwide research, Indians have a greater chance of developing diabetes and glaucoma-related vision issues, including total blindness. It is essential that eye disorders are identified early and the appropriate preventative measures are implemented on time in order to stop the numbers from rising.Dr. Sangeeta Shukla. Consultant Ophthalmology, Entod Pharmaceuticals says, “Many eye diseases are minor and don’t persist for very long. However, some severe eye conditions can harm the eyes significantly, even resulting in permanent vision loss. Fortunately, most eye issues, even the most severe ones, may be avoided.”

Here is a list of some common preventable non-communicable diseases:

Dry Eyes
Dry eyes can significantly irritate the eyes and impede vision, typically in both eyes. The absence of tears, which are necessary to keep the eyes moist, healthy, and infection-free, is the root cause of dry eyes. You might not have any tears because your tears are evaporating faster or producing less of them. Decreased tear production is often due to things that cannot be avoided. These include:

• ageing
• underlying medical issues
• use of certain medications
• medical procedures

Precautions

Dr. Shukla advises, “Usually, increased tear evaporation can be avoided. Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air are a few causes that are frequently cited for increased tear evaporation. On windy, dry days, you can prevent dry eyes by wearing sunglasses. You can also wear goggles if you work outdoors in windy, dry or smoky situations. Not blinking sufficiently can also cause dry eyes. When you pay close attention to something for an extended amount of time—such as reading, driving, or using a computer—this can occur. Take quick breaks from your work to rest your eyes in order to avoid this. Eye drops can also help in preventing dry eye.”

Glaucoma

Glaucoma happens to be a set of eye conditions that harm the optic nerve, which is necessary for clear vision. Exceptionally high pressure frequently results in this condition in the eye or eyes. Glaucoma can eventually cause irreversible blindness. Glaucoma typically runs in families but can also be brought on by diabetes, eye trauma and inactivity.

Precautions

According to Dr. Shukla, “There are steps you may take to stop your glaucoma from getting worse but not all cases of glaucoma can be prevented. Early glaucoma therapy has the highest success rate. The greatest way to prevent glaucoma, according to experts, is to get regular eye exams and screenings, especially if you have diabetes.
Regular exercise lowers ocular pressure which helps to prevent glaucoma. When using power tools or participating in sports that could harm your eyes, protective eyewear is also essential.”

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is a prevalent disorder of the eyes, particularly in persons over 50. It harms the rear of the eye, making it difficult to view objects directly in front of you. Age-related changes in the eye are what lead to the disorder. As the condition progresses, vision loss also occurs in one or both eyes, causing a blurry area at the centre of vision that grows with time. However, some people are more susceptible than others to age-related macular degeneration. These include individuals who smoke, Caucasians and people with a history of the disease in their families.

Precautions

Researchers have discovered relationships between various lifestyle choices and age-related macular degeneration. According to experts, you can lower your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration by:

• avoiding second-hand smoke,
• regular exercise,
• maintaining normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• consuming a nutritious diet

Myopia

People who have myopia (also known as nearsightedness) have trouble seeing objects at a distance but can see objects clearly that are near. If you’ve myopia, you probably inherited it from one or both of your parents.
“Although myopia’s specific cause is still unknown, eye specialists think a combination of inherited and environmental factors is to blame. It’s possible to inherit the ability to be myopic and if your lifestyle creates the ideal circumstances, you’ll eventually get it.” adds Dr. Shukla.

Precautions

Although myopia doesn’t have any cure, there are everyday steps you can take to reduce the chances of developing myopia. Here are some tips:

• Take screen breaks
• Limit your time on digital devices
• Don’t work or read in dim light
• Spend time outdoors
• Wear sunglasses while outside
• Stop smoking
• Wear protective eye gear for hobbies/sports
• Schedule regular eye exams

Takeaway

The best way to prevent non-communicable eye diseases is to adhere to the steps mentioned above and most importantly, schedule regular exams.