By Dr. Hansel M Huang, OD, Eye Care First

Every year around this time life gets a little more exciting. With schools transitioning to winter break, the electric atmosphere at the malls, and not to mention the hurried days in between Christmas and New Years, our lives can become quite manic. Ironically, somewhere within all the chaos we all find ourselves looking towards New Year’s Day as some sort of finish line. This is a day that almost signifies the end of the hectic nature that has come to define December, and yet it is supposed to be a day that represents a beginning of sorts. For some it may be a chance to change something about ourselves—maybe a relationship, a career choice, a health choice, or anything.

When I was initially told of the topic of this issue “resolutions,” I really had no idea how to relate the topic to eyes. I suppose it would be easy for me to just say, “make it a resolution to have your eyes checked”. Seriously, when was the last time you had your eyes examined? But, I thought that doing so, would be a cop-out and rather predictable. So I thought, what would my resolutions be? What would I like to change? My weight? I could also stand to lose a few pounds. Be more organized? Sure, that would be great. But what really is my Achilles’ heel?

Did you know that stress can affect the health of the eye? No, seriously, it can. Stress can cause fluid to gather behind the retina, which causes blurring of vision that can last for weeks to months, a condition known as central serous choroidopathy (CSC). Often, the blur will resolve with time, but in extreme cases treatment may require lasering to stop any leakage. In addition to the eye, it is well documented that stress can have strong effects on the health of the body, including but not limited to headaches, depression, and heart disease. Stress can also play a harmful role in our relationships and workplace as it can alter mood swings, cause difficulty in remembering things, and make decision making harder. In fact, according to the American Institute of Stress (yes there is such an organization), there are 50 common signs and symptoms of stress. Fifty.

So how do we deal with stress? Well, first, keep in mind that, I’m just an optometrist. For many, the best solution is to talk to your primary care physician. Your doctor may be able to provide more information, or direct you to someone who can provide more specific care. I cannot relate how important it is to seek the proper medical advice when dealing with stress, especially relating to physical and mental health.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), there are many ways to deal with everyday stress; however, some may be more affective than others, depending on the individual. The plan usually starts with physical activity. Exercise causes the release of chemicals in the brain called endorphins, which give the body a feeling of well-being. Also, by promoting a healthier life, your body has a better way to combat the effects of stress.

Another way to deal with stress is an improved diet. When we are stressed, it is very easy to reach for foods high in fat, sugar, and salt, or we may skip meals altogether. Eating properly can encourage a healthier body. Certain foods can actually help cope with stress. Talking to a nutritionist would be a great idea.

Find time for yourself. Make time for that book that you’ve been putting off. Learn relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga. Proper sleep is also important.

The last technique for stress management according to the NIH is making an effort to socialize. Taking this last part started me thinking, how do I take this to another level? With all the economic issues, and global strife, it is easy for many to become detached from others; even communities become a little less communal. So what better way to socialize than to volunteer and become a part of something? Maybe the local library could use some help every now and then, or maybe someone down the street could use a hand shoveling his or her driveway. Have a musical talent? Maybe that senior home would like to hear some live music? Maybe by volunteering with some part of the community we can improve our own lives, and at best case, maybe we can affect someone else’s. Making the community better can’t be a bad thing. I think that’s going to be my resolution . . . I’ll do my best. I’d love to hear what you have thought of doing. I’m sure your ideas are better than mine. Let me know at community@eyecarefirst.com.

So, this it that time of year again; the hectic pace of December and the resolutions of January. It is a great opportunity to change something you may not like or wish was better, or do something great. Or, maybe make it a resolution to have your eyes checked.

Seriously, when was the last time you had your eyes examined?