•Dr Priscilia Imade
December is finally here and the year is coming to an end. As you prepare for the funfair of Christmas please remember to protect and take care of your eyes.
Some unwarranted domestic accidents occur during Christmas due to the hustle and bustle of these different activities this season. These seasonal activities can pose certain risks to eye health if precautions are not taken. Examples of these precautionary steps include:
Decorations Safety: Bright, twinkling lights are a staple of Christmas decorations, but be cautious with them. Avoid staring directly at lights and be careful when handling sharp or pointed decorations.
Toy Safety: When gifting toys, especially to children, ensure they are age-appropriate and do not pose any risks of eye injury. Avoid toys with sharp edges or projectiles that can cause harm.
Fire Safety: Be careful of fireworks, fire knock outs, lighted candles, because they can cause sparks which lead to eye injuries. Ensure proper protective measures, do not throw fireworks in gatherings of people, keep candles out of reach of children and inflammable materials.
Cooking Precautions/Safety: When cooking or baking, be cautious of hot oils, steam, or splattering. Use appropriate eye protection like goggles if needed. Do not cook with cooking gas indoors.
Good Ventilation: Avoid room contaminants, sprays and diffusers that can irritate the eyes if they come in direct contact. Ensure proper ventilation when using such products.
Food Allergies: Some holiday foods might trigger allergies. Allergic reactions can sometimes affect the eyes. Be aware of any potential allergens in the meals you prepare or consume.
Travel Safety: If you are traveling during the holidays, remember to pack any necessary eye care items, especially if you are a glaucoma patient or wear contact lenses. Keep your eyes hydrated and take breaks during long drives or flights. Take your eye drops with you always.
Rest and Relaxation: Amidst the Christmas festivities, do not forget to give your eyes enough rest. Long hours of shopping, cooking, or staring at screens can strain your eyes. Take breaks and get adequate sleep.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can affect your eyes, making them dry and irritated. Avoid drinking excessive alcohol and sugary drinks that can affect your eyes this season.
Moderate Treats: Christmas holidays is a season of eating and over eating. These treats are delightful, but excessive sugar and alcohol intake can lead to dehydration and affect your vision. Eat in moderation.
End of year eye examination: Use the end of the year as a reminder to schedule or attend your annual eye examination. It is a good time to ensure your eyes are in good health for the upcoming year.
By taking these precautions and being mindful of potential risks, you can ensure that this Christmas holiday season remains joyful and fulfilling without compromising your eye health.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
