Are Migraines Hereditary? A Closer Look At The Research And Facts
Key Highlights:
Migraines are neurological conditions with a potential hereditary component
Various factors, including genetics, environment, and personal triggers, contribute to the development of migraines
Research has identified several gene mutations and variants associated with migraines, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear
Recognizing the genetic link can aid in developing personalized treatment plans, identifying triggers, and implementing preventive measures
Treatment options for migraines range from medications for acute symptoms to preventive medications and integrative therapies
Introduction
Did you know millions suffer from migraines all around the globe? If you’ve experienced migraines, chances are some family members have too. So, one can’t help but wonder, are migraines handed down through genes? In this blog, we investigate the facts and current research about migraines and their genetic link.
As we go along, we’ll know about what migraines are, the stages, common symptoms, and probable genetic causes. We’ll also check out the myriad of treatment possibilities for those dealing with migraines. Are there any burning questions you might have about migraines and their hereditary nature? We got you covered.
Understanding Migraines
Migraines aren’t just intense headaches. They are more complex. This neurological ailment can bring on various crippling symptoms. Understanding these will help in better management and treatment.
1. What is a Migraine?
A migraine is a neurological ailment known for moderate to severe throbbing pain. It usually affects one side of the head. Other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and light and sound sensitivity may follow.
2. The different stages of a migraine
A migraine usually goes through four distinct stages: prodrome, aura, attack, and post-drome. It’s worth noting not everyone experiences each of these stages.
Prodrome: Also known as the “pre-headache” stage, you might notice subtle signs like changes in mood, food cravings, or more yawning.
Aura: Seen in about one-third of migraine sufferers, the aura stage brings on temporary neurological symptoms. These can include visual issues, numbness, or tingling. A migraine with aura is called a Classic Migraine, and that without aura is called a common Migraine.
Attack: This is when the migraine headache happens. It lasts anywhere between four to 72 hours. The pain, moderate to severe, may throb or pulsate.
Post-drome: This is the recovery period following the headache. You might feel drained or confused and this can last for up to a day.
An aura often occurs 10 to 15 minutes before the headache but can occur just a few minutes to 24 hours before. A headache does not always follow an aura.
3. Common symptoms
Aside from these stages, migraines can come with other symptoms.
Throbbing or pulsating pain that often affects one side of the head
Visual issues (like seeing flashing lights or having blind spots)
Numbness or tingling in the face or limbs
Trouble with speaking or understanding speech
Feeling dizzy or woozy
Being overly sensitive to light, sound, or odours
Having a stiff or painful neck
The headaches usually:
It starts as a dull ache and gets worse within minutes to hours
Are throbbing, pounding, or pulsating
It is worse on one side of the head with pain behind the eye or in the back of the head and neck
Last 4 to 72 hours
Symptoms may linger, even after the migraine goes away. This is called a migraine hangover. Symptoms can include:
Feeling mentally dull, like your thinking is not clear or sharp
Needing more sleep
Neck pain
4. When to see a doctor
If migraines may be a problem for you, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Particularly, make sure to get urgent care for headaches that:
Start suddenly and are harsh in intensity
Come with a high fever, rigid neck, seizures, or other neurological symptoms
Happen after a head injury
Last for over three days or get worse as time passes
Although stress is an inevitable part of life, one may reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines by changing your lifestyle to manage your stress. I recommend one may indulge in regular physical activities like walking, exercise and meditation to relax the body and vent out all the stress. and keep migraines at bay.
Why do migraines happen? We don’t know the exact cause just yet. But, it seems a mix of genetic and environmental factors set off migraines. Day-to-day life brings a lot of internal and external triggers into the picture.
1. Possible causes of migraines
Possible causation theories for migraines include blood vessel function, hormones like estrogen, inflammation of blood vessels, or ion channels in the brain controlling electrical activity. Serotonin, a type of neurotransmitter, also plays a role in managing pain response.
2. Migraine triggers
What might set off a migraine varies from person to person. Triggers can include:
Environmental triggers:
Changes in weather or air pressure
Bright or flashy lights
Loud noises
Strong smells
Dietary triggers:
Caffeine (too much or too little)
Alcohol, especially red wine
Highly processed or aged foods
Missing meals or fasting
Chocolate
Dairy foods, especially certain cheeses
Foods with monosodium glutamate (MSG)
Fruits (avocado, banana, citrus fruit)
Meats containing nitrates (bacon, hot dogs, salami, cured meats)
Onions
Peanuts and other nuts and seeds
3. Lifestyle factors:
Stress or worry
Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns
Shifting hormones (like during menstruation, pregnancy, menopause)
Intense exercise or strain
4. Risk factors for developing migraines
Some risk factors may increase the chances of getting migraines, like:
Family history of migraines
Being female
A personal history of different types of headaches or mood disorders
Use of birth control pills
5. Complications and associated conditions
Some people with migraines may be more prone to suffering from related conditions like:
Chronic tension-type headaches
Regular use of pain-relief medicines can lead to overuse headaches
Vertigo or balance issues
Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
Sleep issues
In my opinion, it seems reasonable to start with your diet when looking for natural migraine cures. Small, frequent meals may help manage migraines and maintain stable blood sugar levels. Try a Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, lean meats like turkey and chicken that are free-range, and healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and seeds.
People with a family history have an increased chance of getting migraines.
1. Inheritance patterns:
A one-in-two chance exists for a child to inherit this condition if one parent has migraines
This chance goes up to three in four if both parents are sufferers
2. Migraine episodes versus headaches:
Those inheriting a genetic inclination may not always get full-blown migraines
Some people might only get mild headaches or related symptoms
3. Benefits of knowing the genetic link to migraines
Knowing the genetic connection can help prepare for migraines better.
Personalized treatment plans: Tailored treatments work better than one-size-fits-all ones
Identifying triggers and risk factors: Learning about common triggers can help lessen the chances of getting a migraine and its impact
Preventive measures and coping strategies: Lifestyle changes and migraine-specific treatments can improve the quality of life for those living with migraines
Diagnosis:
If you have migraines or a family history of migraines, a specialist trained in treating headaches, known as a neurologist, will likely diagnose migraines based on your medical history, symptoms, and a physical and neurological examination.
If your condition is unusual, complex or suddenly becomes severe, tests to rule out other causes for your pain might include:
An MRI scan:
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain and blood vessels. MRI scans help diagnose tumours, strokes, bleeding in the brain, infections, and other brain and nervous systems, known as neurological conditions.
A CT scan
A computerized tomography (CT) scan uses a series of X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the brain. This helps diagnose tumours, infections, brain damage, bleeding in the brain and other possible medical problems that may be causing headaches.
Treatment Options for Migraines
There are many ways to treat migraines, right from meds for acute symptoms to methods aimed at cutting down the number and severity of attacks.
Integrative treatments and therapies
Treatments that can provide relief. These include:
Stress-lowering relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing
Acupuncture
Natural remedies and supplements like butterbur, magnesium, and vitamin B-2
When to consult a doctor for treatment options
If you feel you might have migraines, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They can diagnose your condition and suggest the right treatment. Don’t forget to revisit your healthcare provider if your current treatment isn’t helping enough or if symptoms persist or get worse.
Research indicates a strong hereditary link to migraines. However, the link between genes and migraines is complex and not fully clear. Migraine is a result of both gene-based risk and environmental factors. Everyone’s unique triggers also play a role in this complexity.
Knowing about the genetic link can make for better, individualized treatment plans. It can lead to earlier trigger identification and more personalized preventive steps. Those suffering from migraines should work closely with their healthcare provider. Together they can come up with the best way to manage this intricate and often debilitating condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are migraines inherited from the mother or father?
Migraine genes from either parent can affect the child. If one parent has migraines, the child has a 50% chance. If both parents have them, the chance goes up to 75%.
At what age do migraines commonly start?
Migraines often start during the teen years. They are most common in the 30s and tend to get less severe and frequent with age.
What is the root cause of migraines?
We don’t have a sure-fire answer yet. But it seems a mix of genetic and environmental factors brings on the condition.
Do migraines skip generations?
The inheritance pattern of migraines isn’t clear yet. But due to their complex nature, migraines can skip a generation.
Can lifestyle changes help in managing migraines with a genetic link?
Yes, lifestyle changes can help manage migraines, regardless of a genetic link. Reducing stress, sleeping well, staying hydrated, and eating regular, balanced meals can lessen the chances of getting a migraine. They might also reduce the severity and number of times one suffers from this.
How do I know if I have chronic migraine?
Chronic migraine means you have migraines at least eight times per month for at least three months. Because migraines are disruptive and this condition causes them to happen frequently, experts consider chronic migraine a very disabling condition, meaning it keeps you from doing certain things.
Do migraines cause permanent brain damage? If I have migraines, does that mean I’ll get another disease?
No. Migraines don’t cause brain damage. There is a tiny risk of stroke in people who get migraines with aura – 1 or 2 people out of 100,000.
Can children get migraines?
Yes, but pediatric migraines are often shorter and there are more stomach symptoms.
How often do migraines happen?
The frequency of a migraine could be once a year, once a week or any amount of time in between. Having two to four migraine headaches per month is the most common.
References:
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Home Remedies For Headache By Dr. Siddharth Gupta
Introduction:
Have you experienced pain in or around your head? A pain that feels like a tight band, or a throbbing pain; if yes, don’t worry. We all experience headaches at various times in our lives. Headaches are the most common form of pain and can make you miss a day at work or school.1
A headache can have many causes, and it is important to understand the cause to treat it. Headaches are usually not related to any serious illness. However, if you experience headaches along with other symptoms, it may be an indication of a serious condition.2 In such cases, it is important that you reach out to your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.
However, for less severe headaches, you can use some home remedies. Continue reading to know more about the possible home remedies!
What Causes Headache:
When the pain receptors in your head or neck are stimulated, you might experience a headache. Many factors can stimulate the pain receptors, such as
Pain in any part of your head can present in different ways depending upon the type of headache.
Type of headache
Symptoms
Tension
Pain feels like a tight band around your head
Cluster
Pain strikes in a group.
Migraine
Throbbing pain associated with Nausea and vomiting Visual disturbances Numbness
If you suffer from a persistent or recurring headache, do consult a physician as it can be an early warning sign of more complicated and serious health issues such as stroke, infection, or high blood pressure, especially if it is associated with breathing difficulties, stiffness in the neck or skin rashes.
Here are some remedies for headache you can try at home.
1. Butterbur
Butterbur has a long history of use in fever, wound healing, and muscle spasms. Butterbur root might also be recommended for headaches and migraines. However, butterbur may be associated with side effects like gas and other stomach problems. Also, the use of butterbur should be strictly avoided during pregnancy.3You may take butterbur powder with a glass of water to reduce the intensity of your headache.
2. Caffeine
Caffeine, in the form of coffee, tea and guarana berries, may be used to relieve migraines and headaches. The analgesic (pain relieving) properties of caffeine have been observed in lab studies. However, caffeine should be used cautiously as it can induce headaches in some people as indicated by a study.3 You may use guarana powder to make tea by boiling some powder in a cup of water. Then, you can sip on this tea to relieve headaches.
3. Chamomile
Chamomile has a history of being used for relieving headaches. However, there is insufficient scientific evidence supporting its use. You can take chamomile in the form of tea. Boil some chamomile in water. You can also add honey for taste. You may also inhale chamomile oil using a vaporizer to get relief.3
4. Peppermint
Studies supporting the use of peppermint in headaches are insufficient. Inhaling the aroma of peppermint or peppermint oil may help with headaches according to some studies.3 According to other studies, peppermint tea might help. To make peppermint tea, boil few peppermint leaves in water and let it steep in for a while. You can strain this mixture into a cup and add honey for taste. Your peppermint tea is ready to drink. Sipping this peppermint tea may help decrease your headache.
5. Lifestyle changes
Making some lifestyle changes can help you manage headaches better. You can start with these practices to help you get rid of headaches.
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
Dehydration is one of the causes of headaches. Drinking plenty of water may help you avoid dehydration that might cause headache.
Get your eyes tested
Strain on your eyes or some eye condition can also lead to headaches. Therefore, it is important to get your eyes tested. You should also limit your screen time to avoid unwanted strain.
Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet is the key to maintaining overall health. It may also help manage headaches.
Exercise regularly
Exercise is another way to stay fit and active. It may also help you reduce stress and help manage headaches caused by stress. 2
Foods, drinks or drugs that may bring out a headache are triggers. You can avoid these triggers to help you get rid of headaches. However, you will need to keep track of your headaches to identify the triggers that might be causing your headaches.2
7. Try relaxation techniques
Stress is an important factor responsible for headaches. You can try some relaxation techniques to reduce stress and the headaches associated with it. There are many relaxation techniques, for example, yoga, meditation or massage. You can also try to relax in a warm bath.2 Choose a technique that works best for you.
8. Sleep is your friend
Exhaustion and long working hours are major causes for headaches. To make the best use of short breaksand improve your efficiency, you can try lying down in a quiet and dark room and catch up on some sleep.2,4 Sleep is a good way to relax, regain strength and feel refreshed when you wake up.
Though studies show the benefits of the given herbs and home remedies for headaches, these are insufficient. Therefore, there is a need for large-scale human studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these home remedies on human health. Thus, these should only be taken cautiously and never as a substitute for medical treatment.
Patients should be educated to become more aware of their headache symptoms and triggers. Interventions should be clearly explained to patients.
You need to seek medical help from a healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms along with your headache.
Continuous vomiting
A severe or sudden headache
Neck stiffness, vomiting and light hurts your eyes
Drowsiness or confusion
Unexplained loss in memory
Loss of consciousness
Slurred speech
Difficulty swallowing
Fit or seizure
Rash or fever2
Contact your healthcare provider if you are getting headaches regularly.2
You must not rely on home remedies alone to treat headaches. Instead, you should consult a qualified doctor for advice on your condition if the symptoms do not improve with home remedies.
The role of over-the-counter analgesics in medication overuse headaches must be explained to patients. Patients with all types of primary headaches have the potential to overuse analgesics. They should be counseled on the potential for frequent use of these medications to worsen the intensity and frequency of headaches.
Headaches are a common occurrence and usually don’t signify anything serious unless accompanied with other symptoms. However, it can make life difficult by negatively affecting your ability to focus on work or any other tasks. You can use some home remedies to relieve headaches. Natural remedies like tea, coffee, chamomile and butterbur can be used to relieve headaches. However, you are advised not to solely depend on home remedies for headache treatment and consult your healthcare professional. It is important to find the cause of your headache to treat it properly.
I remember a case where one middle age patient ignored his headache and was getting selfmedicated for alleviating the symptom ,he eventually suffered from stroke due to undiagnosed hypertension (which was the cause of his headache).Whenever someone is having headache especially in people above middle age they should visit their physician and get themselves checked so that some undue severe complication can be prevented.
Some natural remedies for headaches include coffee, tea, chamomile, and butterbur. You can also do a few relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation. Avoiding the triggers that might be causing the headache is another way to manage it. 2,3 If the home remedies don’t help, you can talk to your healthcare provider. Don’t rely on home remedies alone for headache treatment.
What is the best remedy for headache?
The best remedy for headaches depends on the cause of your headache. A headache caused by stress is best treated by stress management. Lifestyle changes might also help, such as proper diet and exercise. You can take help from your healthcare provider to understand the cause of your headache.4,5
Can I use coffee to cure a headache?
Evidence suggests that caffeine might help manage headaches and migraines. However, caffeine could also induce headaches in some people. Therefore, you need to exercise caution.3 The best cure will depend on the cause of headache. A doctor may help you with the diagnosis.
Can I prevent headaches?
Making lifestyle changes like proper diet, drinking plenty of water, and regular exercise may help with the long-term management of headaches. Avoiding triggers that might cause a headache is another way to prevent it. Some common triggers for headaches are: > Alcohol > Stress > Caffeine > Too much or lack of sleep > Hormonal changes in women > Bright light > Poor working conditions4
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the informationprovided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
3
Coronavirus – Here’s Why You Need To Stay Alert!
The recent outbreak of coronavirus is a cause of global concern. It is very similar to the dangerous SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) that claimed the lives of hundreds of people in China and worldwide back in 2002-2003. The coronavirus death toll in China (the epicentre of the disease) has already reached 80.
Should you be worried even if you don’t live in China or are not even travelling to that country? Yes, you still have reasons to worry! Because people who are coming into India from China – such as travellers and tourists may carry the virus.
Here are a few things you should know about coronavirus:
What is coronavirus?
This virus looks like a crown and it affects humans, animals and birds alike. It spreads just like common cough and cold:
When an infected person coughs or sneezes.
When you touch the infected person’s face or hands.
Touching anything that a person with coronavirus has touched, such as a doorknob, bus handrail, etc.
The emergence of the ERIS (EG.5.1) COVID variant, a descendant of Omicron, has led to a surge in infections globally, particularly in Asia and within India. In a recent survey, significant proportions of households in Karnataka, Delhi, and Maharashtra reported viral fever or COVID-like symptoms. The preventive measures remain same with masking, social distancing and vaccination.
Did you know that it is difficult to tell if a person has contracted coronavirus? This is because when you get coronavirus, the symptoms are similar to that of the flu and the common cold.
The signs of coronavirus are:
Runny nose
Sore throat
Headache
Fever
Body ache and muscle cramps.
Coughing
Shortness of breath
Moreover, just like most cases of the flu or common cold, the symptoms disappear within a few days.
However, in some cases, the virus spreads to the lower respiratory system, which is when the infection becomes dangerous. It can trigger pneumonia.
Are certain groups of people at a higher risk?
Yes, certain risk factors make some people more vulnerable than others. People whose immunity is weak or those with heart problems as well as the elderly are more likely to contract pneumonia from coronavirus.
How can doctors tell if it is coronavirus?
Now that WHO has sounded the alert for coronavirus, when you go to your doctor with the symptoms discussed earlier, your doctor will prescribe a blood test or nose and throat swab test to determine the presence of coronavirus.
Is coronavirus treatable?
There is no vaccine for coronavirus. This illness is treated with antiviral medicines that inhibit the spread of the coronavirus. If the disease progresses to pneumonia, doctors will treat it with regular pneumonia medication like Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, aspirin and fluids.
Prevention is better than cure
What can you do to minimize your risk of contracting coronavirus? Here are a few pointers:
Wash your hands and face frequently especially after touching something that everyone else touches like a washroom doorknob or after using public transport.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
Do not touch your mouth, eyes or nose with your unwashed hands.
Face masks can help protect against many respiratory infections that are spread, even coronavirus. If you wear a face mask, you can prevent the infection by stopping the virus from entering your body.
Coronavirus is a growing menace and we should beware and stay cautious to defeat this illness. So stay alert and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from this disease.
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
Epileptic Seizures And Symptoms – The Caregiver’s Perspective
What Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is more common than most people realize. In the general population, approximately one person in a hundred has epilepsy. Although epilepsy is often considered a disorder of childhood, it can begin at any age, and in some people, it persists from childhood to old age. Epilepsy can affect people of all ages and all nationalities. The causes of epilepsy vary according to the age of the onset of epilepsy.
Caring for a person with epilepsy requires knowledge on a variety of topics. For example, it is important that you know the type of seizure the person you are caring for has so that you are knowledgeable on the proper first aid for that seizure. It is also important that you understand the treatments they are receiving and are aware of the other treatment options. The support and care of a caregiver can be invaluable in helping the individual to make informed decisions, to maintain a positive attitude, to adhere to medical advice, and live a full and rewarding life.
Ensuring Safety
Caregivers can be of great assistance in managing seizures and in ensuring the safety of the individual during and after the seizure. Most seizures last from seconds to minutes. This period results in the person temporarily experiencing fatigue, confusion, and/or a headache. Often the person will want to sleep. Talking reassuringly and staying with the person until he or she is re-oriented is important.
Promoting Well-Being
A person who has been diagnosed with epilepsy may experience a range of emotions such as anger, frustration and depression. Concern for the future and negative responses from friends and family can leave a person feeling vulnerable and alone. Depression is more common in individuals with epilepsy than it is in the general population. This could be due to psychosocial factors, the seizures themselves, and/or to seizure medication. As a caregiver, it is important to realize that mood changes can be a side effect of seizure medication or that a person who is distressed or is experiencing isolation may act out negatively as the result of frustration or anger. Being patient, encouraging the person to talk about his or her feelings with someone, and recording behaviour changes to provide to the doctor, are all helpful ways to promote well-being. If a person with epilepsy seems uncharacteristically depressed, encourage a visit to the doctor to discuss these feelings. The doctor may make adjustments in the seizure medication in order to determine whether these issues are due to medication side effects.
Working With the Health Care Team
Caregivers can assist the individual in complying with medical direction and can be actively involved in communicating with health care professionals.
Monitoring Epilepsy Seizure Symptoms
While some people are not able to identify specific events or circumstances that affect seizures, others are able to recognize definite seizure triggers. It is useful to monitor seizure triggers so that seizures can be avoided. Caregivers can assist an individual with epilepsy by helping to assess what triggers seizures and by helping the individual to avoid them.
People with epilepsy can participate in most recreational activities and sports. These activities can enhance well-being and maintain health. There is some evidence that regular exercise may improve seizure control. Some activities are considered too dangerous and others pose some risk due to the possibility of head injury. Participation in recreational activities and sports should be discussed with the doctor.
Caregivers can also facilitate the development of a support system for the individual within the community that involves family, friends, neighbours and professionals.
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
1
Decoding Computer Vision Syndrome: Know Its Symptoms & Treatment
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) or digital eye strain is a group of vision problems that develop due to the continuous use of digital appliances like computers, phones, tablets, e-readers and laptops. Most of us are glued to our computer or phone screens throughout the day. The problems increase for those who already suffer from vision problems, wear spectacles or lenses and those who are older. Due to the increased usage of phone and tablets by kids, even they are developing computer vision syndrome.
Why Does Computer Vision Syndrome Happen?
CVS happens because of the repetitive motion of the eyes over a period of time. The longer one continues the habit of extensive screen time, the problem gets worse. The eyes have to repeatedly adjust their focus as they continue reading over the computer screens. If you need to look at the paper then they have to again readjust their muscles to deal with changing images. With screen time, the problem increases as the eyes have to deal with glare, flickering and contrast on the screen. For those above 40 years of age, due to degeneration of the optic muscles, CVS becomes a real threat.
Resting the eyes for 15 minutes after two hours of continuous computer use is the best. if not possible 20-20-20 rule ie for every 20 minutes of computer viewing, look into the distance of atleast 20 ft away for 20 seconds to allow the eyes a chance to refocus. Frequent blinking to minimize the chances of developing dry eye when using a computer, try to blink frequently.
Ignoring the symptoms will increase the problem, so if you have any of these issues consult your doctor.
Most symptoms associated with CVS are temporary, and they go away a few hours after you stop using the digital screen. If problems leading to consistent eye strain are not resolved, repeated experience of these issues can lead to reduced visual acuity after stopping work on the screen, and this may get worse.
The severity of the symptoms that the patient experiences will depend on his visual ability, how much screen time they do if they have prior vision problems and their age. Many people experience a regression in the symptoms when they reduce their screen time or begin resting their eyes regularly. Doing certain things right helps to alleviate the problem.
Eye Care
Many people benefit from using eyeglasses or contact lenses specially prescribed for computer-related work. Those whose vision doesn’t improve with these may need vision therapy. The eye exercises help to improve the user’s experience of a computer. One is the 20-20-20 rule. In this after every twenty minutes, the person should look away at an object twenty feet away for twenty seconds.
Positioning the Computer
Keep the screen 15-20 degrees lower than eye level and roughly about 28 inches away from the face. Keep the reference materials, if any, at screen level.
Lighting
To avoid glare from the screen, adjust the position of the screen. Avoid keeping the screen against a window or a light source. Use an anti-glare screen if possible. Ensure that there is no overhead lighting above the screen. Change the factory settings of your screen to suit your needs. Adjust screen brightness, contrast and font size.
Blinking
To avoid dry eyes, remember to blink frequently as it keeps the eye surface moist.
Eye Exam
Getting a regular eye examination helps to recognize symptoms of CVS. Also, get a regular eye exam for the kids.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the informationprovided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.