33 woman this month | August 2012 | Perfect Vision IBN RuSHD CLINIC Maintaining healthy eyes during the summer months requires adherence to a few simple tips to ensure you continue to see clearly. Have you ever noticed how during the summer holidays our eyes tend to get easily irritated? Well, the irritation is due to the heat. Studies have shown that occular problems increase throughout the summer months. Hitting the beach and taking a dip in the swimming pool may be fun, but the sun’s rays and the chlorine-filled water causes our eyes to dry out. Consultant ophthalmologist, Dr Hassan Al Arrayed of Ibn Rushd Clinic suggests avoiding direct sunlight between 10am and 3pm as UV rays are at an all-time high. “Since the rays dries out our eyes, it proves helpful to always use and have moisturising eye drops in hand,” explains the doctor. Also, sunglasses aren’t all about fashion statements; they are to the eyes what sunscreen is to the skin. Invest in quality shades with wide frames to get the best possible protection. Contact lens wearers might have a tricky time during summer, as the humidity makes the lenses uncomfortable, causing irritation. The doctor advises his patients to clean their lenses daily and never sleep with it. Allergies and infections in the eyes also tend to shoot up because of the heat and dust, consulting a specialist is advised if the eyes are red, itchy and always tired. Call 17 722-828. Working Mum BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL Contrary to popular belief, being pregnant does not prevent women from working. The team at Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH) assures women that all you need to go about your usual working self is a safe and comfortable working environment. To maintain a proper work rate, women need to understand the risks their surrounding can have on pregnancy. “One hazard is lifting or carrying heavy loads, this all together is not acceptable. Another is standing or sitting for long periods without breaks,” explains Dr Berly Balita of BSH’s obstetrician and gynecology department. Studies have shown that prolonged standing carries a small risk of preterm birth and even low birth weight. Long working hours as well as exposure to toxic substances, like smoke, can act as risks to the health of both the mother and the unborn child. Dr Berly notes that computers cause eyestrain, but also neck, wrist, hand, shoulder and back pain from sitting in the same position for a prolonged period of time. “To alleviate these symptoms, use detachable keyboards and adjustable chairs and tables. Adjusting the screen lighting and contrast and using non-reflective glass on the screen is generally advised to everyone,” she says. Studies run by the American Medical Association shows that pregnant women should take a longer meal break, every four hours, and drink plenty of fluids while at work. “Women need to know that pregnancy is not a disability. Pregnant women just need to take proper precautions to avoid these risks on the job and keep her and her baby healthy throughout the nine months,” the doctor advises. Call 17 812-000.
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