FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is It Bad to Read In the Car?
Many of us have been told dozens of times not to read in the car, but there are only so many options for passing the time while travelling. Is it really bad to read in the car? According to Dr. Michael G. Stewart (otorhinolaryngology), the answer is no, “Reading in the car is not really bad for your health, although it can make you feel bad.” A significant number of people find that they feel unwell when they read in the car, and primarily two phenomena are behind their discomfort—motion sickness or eye strain.
No studies have shown a correlation between riding as a passenger and health concerns; so if it doesn’t bother you, go ahead. However, you should keep in mind that it is extremely dangerous to read while driving, even if it’s just looking at a map for directions. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration highlight the danger—performing visual-manual tasks (which includes reading from a mobile device) increases the risk of a vehicle accident by three times. If you need to look up directions while driving, bring someone along or pull over
How does diabetes affect your eyes?
Diabetes causes problems in the retina with what are collectively called microvascular abnormalities. The small blood vessels develop microaneurysms and leak blood. New blood vessel growth (neovascularization) occurs. Unfortunately, these blood vessels are weak and also leak. These leaks (hemorrhages) can cause irreversible damage to the retina and permanent vision loss.
Patients with controlled diabetes do better than those with uncontrolled diabetes. However, even a person whose diabetes is under perfect control can still develop diabetic retinopathy — hence, the need for yearly retinal exams.
What can I do to prevent my eye sight getting worse?
Good eyesight is something we all take for granted, until it is threatened. Only then do we consider how vital our eyesight is to our mobility, entertainment, practical tasks and quality of life. Our eyesight does gradually deteriorate as we get older, but here are a few tips to make sure you give them the best care possible. Your eyes will thank you for it!
Tired, strained eyes, like the rest of our bodies may benefit from a little TLC. If your eyes feel tired and strained at the end of the day, then try to rest them. If you read or look at the computer screen for long periods of time, then give yourself a break visually. The 20/20/20 rule recommends after 20 minutes, look away 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This will relax your focusing muscles just enough to allow you to continue your task. Your body appreciates and responds to a massage, and so will your tired eyes. Close your eyes, cover them with a warm soft towel and give them a gentle massage at the end of day.