Many medical experts recommend the 20-20-20 rule to combat the growing myopia epidemic: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away, potentially slowing myopia’s progression.
Myopia, commonly known as near-sightedness, is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide, particularly among children. The prevalence of myopia in urban children aged 5 to 15 has surged dramatically over the past two decades. Prevalence will rise significantly in the coming years, leading to an overall increase in myopia occurrence across all age groups.
The Risks Of Myopia
The risks associated with myopia go beyond simple vision impairment. Myopic eyes are significantly more prone to retinal detachment compared to normal eyes. For example, the incidence of retinal detachment is higher in eyes with myopia greater than 6.00 D compared to normal eyes. The risk escalates with higher degrees of myopia, becoming higher in severe cases.
Ayurvedic Solutions
Ayurvedic solutions for various health conditions, including myopia and other eye disorders, nourish the body’s doshas and improve overall eye health.
- Include Eye-Healthy Nutrients in Your Diet: Leafy greens, carrots, vitamin C-rich fruits, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids support optimal eye health.
- Tarpana Therapy involves nourishing the eyes with medicated ghee or oil to lubricate them, improve vision, and alleviate dryness and irritation.
- Triphala and Amla Consumption: Consuming Triphala powder and Amla naturally can help improve vision and prevent eye-related disorders.
- Panchakarma Therapy: A detoxifying treatment that removes toxins from the body, including the eyes, promoting clarity of vision.
- Moderate Sugar Intake: Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to inflammation and may exacerbate myopia symptoms.
- Minimize Processed Foods: Reduce consumption of processed and refined foods which lack essential nutrients.
- Stay Hydrated: Water and nourishing liquids prevent eye dryness, which can exacerbate myopia symptoms.
- Trataka: A yogic technique focusing on a candle flame to enhance concentration and eye-focusing ability.
- Netra Basti: Warm medicated oil is pooled around the eyes to nourish tissues and improve vision.
- Balanced Meals: To enhance eye health, include healthy fats in your diet.
Managing Vision Challenges For Severe Myopia
Individuals with 6/12 or 6/18 vision face significant visual challenges and often need to be closer to objects to see them. While glasses can help, some professions such as those in medicine, aviation, and emergency services require flawless vision, often requiring surgical correction. However, many countries, including Australia, permit individuals with 6/12 vision to drive, though positions in the Indian army, navy, and railways require 6/6 visual acuity.
The 20-20-20 Rule: An Effective Measure Against Myopia
Many medical experts recommend the 20-20-20 rule to combat the growing myopia epidemic: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away, potentially slowing myopia’s progression.