A reported 4.2 million people in the United Kingdom pledged to go dry in January 2019, 1.1 million more than in 2018. It’s easy to see why after the aftermath of the Christmas party season.
Giving up alcohol has many health benefits, including lower blood pressure, a lower risk of heart disease, and a stronger immune system, to name a few.
So, if you’re tired of waking up blurry-eyed, try dry January and see for yourself the positive impact it has on your health.
Continue reading for a unique perspective on getting blind drunk…
Macular Degeneration with Age
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the deterioration of the macula, which is the central part of the retina (light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye). In the United Kingdom, approximately 600,000 people are affected.
Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked as a risk factor for AMD by the American Optometric Association. Aside from limiting alcohol consumption, those in the early stages of AMD can take steps to slow the disease’s progression.
A healthy and balanced diet, particularly one rich in plant-based foods, can dramatically improve eye health. Although diet cannot prevent AMD, it can help to slow its progression.
Even a small amount of alcohol has been found to hasten the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Watery eyes, stinging or burning sensations in the eyes, sensitivity to light, redness, discomfort, and eye fatigue are all possible symptoms.
Once the alcohol is out of your system, these symptoms should go away on their own; however, in severe cases, treatment is required.
Cataracts
Numerous studies have found an increased risk of cataract development in patients who consume more alcohol. A group of Swedish researchers noted that people who drank on a regular basis were approximately 11% more likely to require cataract surgery later in life than non-drinkers.
Cataracts are most widespread in people over the age of 65, who describe living with the condition as if they were looking through frosted glass. The only available treatment is lens replacement, which involves removing the infected lens and permanently replacing it with an artificial one.
Neuritis of the eye
Vitamins are required for the health of the eyes (you can read up on the top vitamins for optimal eye health here). Heavy drinking depletes the body’s reserve of vital vitamins and nutrients, which can lead to optic neuritis.
Optic neuritis is defined as inflammation of the optic nerve (responsible for sending messages from the eye to the brain). Blurred vision, loss of colour vision, headaches, and loss of central vision are all symptoms.
When excessive drinking is stopped, symptoms usually go away without medical intervention; however, in severe cases, the optic nerve may be permanently damaged.
Deficiency of Vitamin A
Excessive alcohol consumption reduces the ability of the liver to absorb essential vitamins. This can result in a lack of vitamin A, which is a critical nutrient for the eyes.
To nourish the cornea, the eyes require vitamin A. Night blindness, corneal thinning, corneal perforation, dryness, and, in some cases, blindness due to retinal damage may result from a lack of vitamin A.
It may surprise you to learn that vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of preventable blindness in children around the world. Every year, an estimated 500,000 children are blinded as a result of it.
Bloodshot Vision
Have you ever awoken from a late-night party with red, bloodshot eyes? Because alcohol dilates the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, more blood flows through them.
If you must show your face in public, there are a few home remedies that can help. Holding a cold compress over closed eyes is frequently effective. The rapid drop in temperature constricts the blood vessels, reducing redness.
Eye Muscle Damage
Excessive drinking over a long period of time causes brain cell damage, slowing communication between the optic nerve and the brain. This means that the eye muscles’ coordination is impaired. As a result, your vision may become permanently distorted.
Pupil Reaction Time Is Slower
Alcohol reduces pupil reaction times and the ability of the iris to dilate. Drivers should be concerned because their eyes cannot adapt as quickly to oncoming headlights, even if they are still under the legal drink-drive limit.
Twitching of the eyes
Myokymia is the medical term for eye twitching, also known as eyelid twitching. Excessive alcohol consumption can hasten this process. This twitch can last for days in heavy drinkers, and while it is harmless, it is extremely irritating.
Seek medical attention if you have had an eye twitch for more than two weeks.
Reduced Contrast Sensitivity
According to a Western University study, at a blood alcohol level of 50mg/100ml, alcohol reduces the eye’s ability to adjust vision for brightness and contrast by 30%. (the legal drink driving limit).
What happens to your body after a month of no alcohol:
*The renewal of red blood cells will begin. As a result, vital organs receive more blood and oxygen.
*Skin is more hydrated, and its appearance improves.
*Your liver will begin to eliminate excess fat.
*The body is more likely to remove contaminants, convert food nutrients, and store minerals and vitamins.
The occasional drink will not have a significant negative impact on your health; however, consistent consumption or binge drinking can have serious consequences for your mind, body, and, of course, your eyes. Try to stick to the weekly unit allowance that is recommended.
At Dr Kamdar Eye Hospital, we are committed to providing our patients with professional, high-quality services, as well as a safer environment, a better experience, and the assurance of living a lovely life with improved eyesight.