Did you know that October 9th is World Sight Day?
World Sight Day is that one day of the year dedicated to giving our eyes some much-needed love and raising awareness about eye health worldwide. The theme changes every year, but the goal stays the same: remind people that good vision isn’t something to take for granted.
On World Sight Day we spoke to Dr. Pratik Gogri, MBBS, MS Ophthalmology, F.LVPEI (Cornea and Anterior Segment). Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgeon, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Mumbai and Dr. Rashmi, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Hassan on eye health, eye care tips and daily habits that can improve vision.
Think about it, we rely on our eyes for basically everything: scrolling through social media, binge-watching shows, reading emails, or just enjoying the sunset. Yet, millions of people around the world live with preventable vision problems, and some don’t even realize they could get help. That’s why this day is so important.
World Sight Day isn’t just about awareness; it’s a nudge to take action. Schedule that overdue eye exam, get your kids’ vision checked, or even donate to charities helping those with visual impairments. Small steps can make a huge difference.
Why do doctors say our eyes are like “windows to our health”? What can they reveal about the rest of our body?
Dr. Pratik Gogri: Once, when a patient walked into my eye clinic, he thought he only needed a new pair of glasses. But as I examined him thoroughly, I discovered something surprising to the patient. I asked the patient, "Did you know your eyes are like windows to your health?”. Confused, he smiled politely. That’s when I explained: Tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye often reflect what’s happening in the rest of the body. High blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, even early signs of neurological conditions—all can quietly show up in the eyes before a person feels sick. I had noticed changes in my patient's retina that suggested early diabetes. A simple eye check-up led him to a full body examination, and soon he was on treatment that prevented serious complications.
Such instances are not rare. The eye is the only place in the body where doctors can directly see blood vessels without surgery. That’s why eye check-ups are more than just about vision—they are about health as a whole. So the next time you sit in that chair and the doctor peers into your eyes, remember: they aren’t just checking how clearly you see, but also how healthy you truly are.
What’s one thing most people do every day that makes eye doctors cringe?
Dr. Rashmi: Applying Google knowledge to every health issue is a common concern. The problem is that Google provides only generalized details, especially when it comes to eye conditions. It’s fine to read for awareness, but online searches should never replace a professional eye examination. The safest approach is to note down your symptoms and consult an ophthalmologist, who can differentiate between a minor issue and something that needs urgent attention. Relying on accurate diagnosis and timely treatment prevents complications and saves sight.
With so many of us glued to screens, how much damage is really being done to our eyes and is there a way to undo it?
Dr. Pratik Gogri: With long hours on phones, laptops, and TVs, many worry that screens are “ruining” their eyes. For adults, the good news is that screens don’t cause permanent damage; but they do lead to digital eye strain. This can bring on dryness, headaches, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing. The solution is simple: follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds), blink often, and avoid marathon screen sessions. For children, however, there’s more at stake. Screens fall under what we call “near work”, activities like reading or writing done up close. Too much near work, especially without balancing it with outdoor play, can increase the risk of myopia (short-sightedness) progression. Outdoor time in natural light is proven to protect young eyes, so parents should encourage breaks, playtime outside, and limited continuous screen use. Screens are here to stay, but smart habits make all the difference. Adults need to manage strain, while children need a healthy mix of near work and outdoor activity to safeguard their vision for the future.
If you had to bust the biggest myth about eyesight that patients believe, what would it be?
Dr. Rashmi: One of the most harmful myths still circulating is the belief that breast milk can cure eye problems in infants. While breast milk is nourishing for feeding, it is not sterile when instilled into the eyes. This can introduce bacteria and worsen infections, sometimes leading to corneal ulcers or permanent damage if left untreated. Despite cultural beliefs, using breast milk for eye conditions is unsafe and not scientifically supported.
Prevention: Parents should never use home remedies like breast milk for eye infections. If a child has eye discharge, redness, or swelling, the safest step is to consult an ophthalmologist. Prompt treatment with sterile, doctor-prescribed medication ensures the infection is controlled without risk of complications.
If you could give just one daily habit for protecting eye health, what would it be?
Dr. Pratik Gogri: I would actually recommend several simple habits, each powerful in its own way:
A. Spend time outdoors (especially for children): At least 90–120 minutes of outdoor time daily helps protect young eyes from developing or worsening myopia (short-sightedness). Natural daylight is like a vitamin for healthy vision.
B. Stay hydrated & blink often: Your eyes need moisture. Dehydration or staring at screens without blinking makes them dry and irritated. Consciously blinking and sipping water through the day keeps eyes refreshed.
C. Eat your colors: Leafy greens, carrots, nuts, and fish rich in Omega-3s nourish the eyes and protect against long-term conditions like macular degeneration. A rainbow on your plate means protection for your sight.
D. Wear sunglasses outdoors: UV rays harm not only the skin but also the eyes. A good pair of UV-protective sunglasses reduces risks of cataracts and protects the retina from sun damage.
"Whether it’s outdoor play, screen breaks, or simply remembering to blink, a single small habit; done daily; can go a long way in keeping your eyes healthy for life! Don't forget to have your eyes checked routinely once a year with an Ophthalmologist!"
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