Stress-induced vision problems
In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an almost
inevitable part of life. Stress, anxiety and depression are not just confined
to affecting mental health; their impact can extend to various facets of our
well-being, including something as fundamental as our vision. The link between
mental health and vision is a complex one, where the two can both influence and
be influenced by each other.
Mental health issues can manifest in physical ways throughout the body, including the eyes. When stress takes its toll on the mind, it can lead to physical changes in the body, affecting blood flow, muscle tension and even the functioning of the eyes.
Dry eyes
Stress can lead to reduced tear production, causing dry and
irritated eyes. The link between stress and dry eyes is thought to be mediated
by the autonomic nervous system, which controls tear production. Increased
stress can disrupt the balance of this system, resulting in inadequate tear
production and discomfort.
Blurry vision
According to Dr. Rishi Raj Borah, Country Director – India, Orbis,
“Stress-induced muscle tension can lead to changes in the way the eyes focus.
This can result in temporary blurry vision and difficulty in maintaining clear
sight, particularly during periods of heightened stress.”
Eye twitching
Those pesky and prolonged eye twitches that seem to appear out of
nowhere can also be linked to stress. Stress triggers nerve impulses that can
cause the muscles around the eyes to contract involuntarily, resulting in
twitches.Eye twitching for more than 2 weeks should not be ignored.
Less social interaction maybe the cause
While stress can affect vision, the relationship works both ways.
Vision problems can also contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression. Vision
problems can lead to poor quality of life. Living with eye disorders can
exacerbate feelings of frustration and helplessness, contributing to mental
distress. Vision problems can also sometimes result in withdrawal from social
interactions. The fear of not being able to see things clearly or the
embarrassment of wearing glasses can isolate people from their social circles,
contributing to feelings of loneliness and depression.
How to manage stress for a healthy vision
Understanding that stress and eye health can be connected is the
first step towards managing the impact. One can deal with stressful situations
by engaging in techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga. Besides,
going for regular eye check-ups is a great way to catch any eye problem at an
early stage and start treatment as required. Choosing a healthy lifestyle is
important for one’s overall health.
To begin with, this could mean maintaining a balanced diet,
staying hydrated, and keeping a check on quality sleep. Moreover, limiting
one’s screen time and taking regular breaks if one’s work requires prolonged
screen usage is a healthy practice to inculcate. It is important to seek
professional help if a person is experiencing persistent stress, anxiety, or
depression. A holistic approach to health involves addressing both mental and
physical aspects.
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