[ad_1]
Cases of eye stroke are on the rise amid the ongoing scorching heat in various parts of the country. Heatwaves can affect many aspects of our health and put us at risk of heart disease, brain disorders, lung, liver and kidney problems. Another dangerous side effect of the scorching heat is eye stroke, which can lead to sudden vision loss and is similar to a brain stroke. During the extremely hot months, the body may struggle to keep itself cool. This can lead to dehydration, which increases the chances of blood clots. (Also Read | Intense heat: 7 foods that can help prevent heat stroke)
Heatwaves can also lead to high blood pressure which can increase the risk of blockage in arteries. If someone experiences sudden blurred vision or loss of central vision, it could be an eye stroke. To prevent this condition, it is important to stay hydrated, avoid peak-hour sun exposure, and manage your chronic diseases well.
What is an eye trauma?
Dr. Anurag Agarwal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital Faridabad said, “An eye attack, medically known as retinal artery occlusion, occurs when blood flow to the retina is blocked, leading to sudden loss of vision. The retina requires a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients provided by the blood flow; therefore, any blockage can cause severe damage within minutes.”
“It is similar to a stroke in the brain, but it affects the eye,” says Dr Deepti Mehta, consultant ophthalmologist at Care Hospitals in Hitech City, Hyderabad.
Why are cases of eye injuries increasing amid hot winds?
“Heat waves can cause dehydration and increase blood viscosity, increasing the risk of blood clots. Extreme heat can also aggravate cardiovascular conditions, further increasing the risk of eye strokes,” says Dr. Deepti Mehta, Consultant – Ophthalmology, Care Hospitals, HITEC City, Hyderabad.
Dr Agarwal says this could be due to dehydration and heat stress on the body, as extreme heat can also put a strain on the cardiovascular system:
1. Dehydration and blood viscosity
Heat waves increase the risk of dehydration. Dehydration can cause the blood to thicken, increasing the chance of clotting, which can cause blockages in retinal arteries.
2. Heat stress on the body
Heat stress can worsen underlying cardiovascular conditions, which are directly linked to eye strokes. High temperatures can also increase high blood pressure, further increasing the risk of clogged arteries.
3. Increase in the incidence of heat-related illnesses
Heat waves contribute to an increase in heat-related illnesses, which put a strain on the cardio-vascular system, and affect retinal arteries.
Signs and Symptoms of Eye Trauma
Dr Agarwal explains the symptoms of eye stroke and its treatment:
1. Sudden vision lossSudden, painless loss of vision in one eye is the most common symptom of an eye stroke. It can be partial or complete.
2. Visual disturbancesSudden loss or blurred vision, where central vision may be affected but peripheral vision remains intact.
3. Sudden blind spotsAnother symptom is the appearance of blind spots or shadows that affect the visual field.
Treatment
1. Immediate medical attentionSeek immediate medical help. Time is of the essence as delay can lead to permanent vision loss.
2. Clot-busting drugs: Use of thrombolytics to dissolve the clot in the artery.
3. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: Increasing oxygen supply to reduce retinal damage.
4. Paracentesis: A procedure to relieve ocular pressure by draining fluid from the anterior chamber of the eye.
Prevention Tips
Dr. Mehta says that appropriate changes in lifestyle need to be made to deal with the scorching heat.
- stay hydrated, especially during heat waves
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Manage underlying health conditions effectively
- avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
- Get regular eye checkups, especially for people with cardiovascular risk factors
[ad_2]
