Glaucoma is also called the "silent thief of sight" since it progresses slowly without apparent symptoms in its initial stages. Glaucoma develops quietly, unlike other vision issues that appear with instant discomfort or blurred vision, and tends to damage peripheral vision before central vision. Regular eye exams are important for early diagnosis and treatment.

Think of your eyes as cameras, taking pictures that your brain interprets through the optic nerve. Glaucoma destroys this nerve, preventing your brain from getting clear pictures. The catch is that it happens slowly and painlessly, so it's easy to ignore until permanent vision loss has taken place.

Dr. Ajay Sharma, Ophthalmologist, says, "Most people think that good central vision means healthy eyes, but glaucoma attacks the optic nerve, producing slow, irreversible damage. Early detection is the key to identifying this condition before it advances."

Early Symptoms of Glaucoma Are Often Undetectable

Perhaps the most perilous part of glaucoma is that there are often no warning signs at all. Most individuals believe that vision loss will be preceded by obvious symptoms such as pain or sudden blurriness, but this is not true for glaucoma. The disease tends to attack peripheral vision initially, so it is hard to notice until extensive damage has been done. With time, people might start to feel they cannot see things on the side, but by then, the damage could already be extensive.

From Dr. Sharma, "Glaucoma may develop even when vision seems perfectly normal. Sometimes, for example, with normal-tension glaucoma, optic nerve damage happens even with normal intraocular pressure."

Who's at Risk? Kow Risk Factors

While anyone can get glaucoma, some people are at greater risk. Knowing these risk factors can help you take action to safeguard your eyesight.

Age: The risk of glaucoma grows much higher after age 60. African Americans are at greater risk, however, after age 40.

Family History: If a close relative has experienced glaucoma, you are more likely to develop it.

Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are more likely to develop certain forms of glaucoma.

Eye Health Conditions: Nearsightedness, eye trauma, or chronic inflammation can lead to the disease.

Medical Conditions: Glaucoma risk is heightened in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Medications: Chronic use of corticosteroids will often elevate intraocular pressure, elevating the danger of optic nerve damage.

How Can You Catch Glaucoma Early?

As glaucoma has limited detectable signs and symptoms during the early phases, the optimal approach to capture it before severe harm is by extensive eye examinations.

Opticians conduct a dilated eye test, during which special drops widen the pupils, enabling a better look at the optic nerve. A tonometry test takes an intraocular reading, and a visual field test checks peripheral vision.

Dr. Sharma stresses, "Those with increased risk factors, such as high myopes or hypermetropes, diabetes, eye injuries, or long-term steroid treatment, should have regular eye tests to check intraocular pressure and optic nerve function."

How to Protect Your Eyesight?

Though glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection can delay its advancement and help save vision. Here are real-life measures to safeguard your eyesight:

1. Get Regular Eye Exams

A thorough eye examination every one to two years is necessary, particularly for people over 40 or with risk factors. These examinations can identify glaucoma before symptoms are evident.

2. Control Underlying Health Conditions

Managing conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can lower the risk of optic nerve damage. Healthy living protects your overall eye health.

3. Take Medications as Directed

If diagnosed with glaucoma, your doctor may prescribe eye drops or oral medications to reduce intraocular pressure. Consistently using prescribed treatments can slow disease progression.

4. Protect Your Eyes from Injury

Eye injuries can increase the risk of glaucoma. Wear protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk, such as sports or working with hazardous materials.

5. Follow a Healthy Diet

Eating food rich in nutrients, especially antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and E, is good for your eyes. Make leafy greens, fish, nuts, and oranges a part of your diet.

6. Be Physically Active

Regular exercise may reduce eye pressure. Walk, practice yoga, or swim to stay healthy.

7. Reduce Screen Time and Eye Strain

Prolonged screen time can cause digital eye strain, leading to discomfort and dry eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Glaucoma is a quiet but dangerous eye disease that can cause permanent vision loss if not treated. Because symptoms may not be noticeable until extensive damage has been done, regular eye exams are the best protection against this disease.

As Dr. Sharma says, "The key to preventing glaucoma-related vision loss is early detection. Don't wait for symptoms to appear—schedule an eye exam and take charge of your eye health today."

Dr. Ajay Sharma, Ophthalmologist, Founder and Chief Medical Director of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals in India

Performing short and intense exercises that last for about 10 minutes may significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, a British study shows.

Researchers at Newcastle University have found that completing brief workouts increases the concentration of several small molecules in the blood that have previously been linked to reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function and metabolism.

The findings, which were published in the International Journal of Cancer, also noted that even short bouts of exercise can influence the activity of genes that govern tumor growth and fight against cancer.

Dr Sam Orange, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Exercise Physiology at Newcastle University and lead study author, said of the results, "What’s remarkable is that exercise doesn’t just benefit healthy tissues, it sends powerful signals through the bloodstream that can directly influence thousands of genes in cancer cells.

“It’s an exciting insight because it opens the door to find ways that mimic or augment the biological effects of exercise, potentially improving cancer treatment and, crucially, patient outcomes.

“In the future, these insights could lead to new therapies that imitate the beneficial effects of exercise on how cells repair damaged DNA and use fuel for energy.”

How Does It Work?

Researchers had asked each volunteer to complete a short, intense cycling test that lasted about 10 minutes and collected each of their blood samples which were then meticulously analyzed.

After studying about 249 proteins, the experts found nearly 13 protein had increased in their blood flow after the short exercise including interleukin-6 (IL-6), which helps repair the DNA of damaged cells.

When these exercise-induced proteins were applied to colorectal or bowel cancer cells by the scientists in a lab, they discovered that these new proteins could alter the activity of over 1,300 genes, particularly those who were responsible for DNA repair, energy production and cancer cell growth.

As a result, they concluded that performing even small exercises can activate a set of genes in the body's cells that can support efficient use of oxygen and promote energy metabolism. Additionally, the British researchers also discovered that the cell genes which have been previously associated with rapid cell growth were switched off after working out, suggesting that this might aid in controlling cancerous growths in the body.

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal or bowel cancer is a common cancer that forms in the tissues of the colon (large intestine) or rectum, often starting as non-cancerous growths called polyps that turn cancerous over time.

Despite being treatable and preventable, colorectal cancer is currently the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Over 70,000 new cases of colorectal cancer occur annually in India, making it the fourth most common cancer in the country.

Typical symptoms usually include :

• Blood in or on the stool
• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, narrower stools)
• Abdominal discomfort, cramps, gas, or pain
• Feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
• Weakness, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss

When temperature drops, so does the moisture even in your skin. This is what leads to a rash or allergies. In fact, with changes in temperature, and winters, our lifestyle changes too, this could also be the reason why we experience a winter rash, or allergies. To understand this better, Health and Me spoke to Dr Navjot Arora, Consultant Dermatologist, Dermaheal Skin and Clinic at Dwarka, Delhi, who explained that allergies and skin rashes tend to increase during winter due to both, environmental factors and changes in skin health. "Cold temperatures and low humidity levels reduce moisture in the air, leading to excessive dryness of the skin. When the skin becomes dry, its natural protective barrier weakens. This makes it more prone to irritation, inflammation, and allergic reactions."

Why Does Winter Weather Increase Chances Of Rashes And Allergies?

The doctor explains that during winter, people tend to stay indoors more, and it also increases their exposure to allergens like dust mites, mold, pet dander, and chemical fumes from heaters and cleaning products. "Limited ventilation and closed spaces allow these allergens to build up, triggering allergic responses and skin rashes, especially in individuals with sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions like eczema."

Cold weather also affects blood circulation to the skin. Reduced blood flow can slow down the skin’s repair process and weaken its defense against irritants and allergens. As a result, chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis often worsen in winter, leading to itching, redness, flaking, and rashes.

Lifestyle Changes In Winter

Doctor also points out that during winters, our bathing habit changes. Dr Arora says, "Frequent hot showers strip away the skin’s natural oils, increasing dryness and irritation. In addition, wearing heavy woolen or synthetic clothing can cause friction, sweating, and contact allergies, particularly in skin folds, which can further contribute to rashes."

Common Symptoms Of Winter Rashes

• flushing
• swelling
• itching
• flaking skin
• sensitivity
• bumps
• blisters

If not treated well, or in time, it can develop into more serious health threat, especially if you have a family history of

• eczema or another type of dermatitis
• psoriasis
• rosacea
• allergies
• asthma
• sensitive skin

What Are The Cures To Winter Rashes And Allergies?

The rise in allergies and rashes during winter is largely linked to dry weather, indoor allergen exposure, and skin barrier damage. Maintaining proper skin hydration, avoiding harsh soaps, limiting hot water exposure, and wearing skin-friendly fabrics can help reduce the risk of winter-related allergies and skin rashes.

Moisturizers are usually the first line of care for dry skin because they help trap moisture and prevent further dryness. Apply them multiple times a day, especially after bathing or washing your hands. Thicker options like creams or ointments tend to keep skin hydrated longer than lighter lotions.

Petroleum jelly can also be effective, as it forms a protective barrier that seals in moisture. If you prefer to avoid petroleum-based products, alternatives like Waxelene or Un-Petroleum work in a similar way to reduce moisture loss.

Natural virgin oils, such as coconut oil, may help calm irritated skin and restore hydration. Use them on areas that are not acne-prone, and always do a patch test on a small area for 24 hours before wider application.

Oatmeal-based soaps or oatmeal baths can also help soothe dry, itchy skin. You can buy ready-made oatmeal soaps or add finely ground oats to a warm bath and soak for about 10 minutes.

For itching and inflammation, topical hydrocortisone creams, available over the counter or by prescription, may provide relief. Always follow the instructions on the label or use them as advised by a doctor.

Disclaimer: This is not a substitute for actual prescribed medicine. Please consult a doctor before you purchase any medicine or ointment for your rashes.

The NHS has released updated guidance for people who are currently taking clonazepam, a commonly prescribed medicine that belongs to the benzodiazepine group. According to the health service, clonazepam is often used to control seizures or fits linked to epilepsy, ease involuntary muscle spasms, and help manage panic disorders. It is also prescribed in some cases for people with restless legs syndrome (RLS). NHS Inform notes that “around 1 in 10 people experience restless legs syndrome at some stage in their life.”

Explaining how the drug works, the NHS says it increases levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical in the brain that has a calming effect. By boosting GABA, clonazepam can reduce anxiety, prevent seizures or fits, and relax tight or overactive muscles.

Who Can Take Clonazepam?

Clonazepam is only available on prescription and comes as tablets or a liquid. Most adults aged 18 and over can take either form. In certain cases, children as young as one month old may be prescribed clonazepam to treat epilepsy, as per NHS.

That said, there are situations where extra caution is needed. People who are due to have surgery or dental treatment, those who are pregnant, trying to conceive, or who have sleep-related conditions may be advised to stop taking the medicine. However, these are not the only groups the NHS says should be careful.

Clonazepam is not suitable for everyone. Before starting treatment, patients are advised to tell their doctor if they:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to clonazepam or any other medicine
• have myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness
• have sleep apnoea, which affects breathing during sleep
• have lung, liver, or kidney problems
• have spinal or cerebellar ataxia, which can cause shakiness, poor balance, and slurred speech
• have had problems with alcohol or drug use in the past
• have recently experienced bereavement, depression, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• have been diagnosed with a personality disorder
• are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breastfeeding
• are due to have a general anaesthetic for an operation or dental procedure

What Are The Side Effects Of Clonazepam?

Like many medicines, clonazepam can cause side effects. Common effects, which affect more than 1 in 100 people, include disturbed sleep such as vivid dreams, feeling sleepy during the day, light-headedness, dizziness, unsteadiness, and muscle weakness.

When it comes to long-term use, the NHS warns that clonazepam can lead to withdrawal symptoms if taken for a prolonged period. Because of this risk, people who have been prescribed the drug for more than four weeks may have their dose reduced slowly when stopping treatment, rather than stopping suddenly.

The NHS also stresses that this is not a complete list of side effects. Patients are advised to read the information leaflet that comes with their medicine for full details.

Clonazepam: Serious Side Effects To Watch Out For

Although uncommon, some people may experience serious side effects while taking clonazepam. The NHS advises contacting a doctor or calling 111 immediately if you notice:

• yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin, which may be less noticeable on darker skin tones, as this could point to liver problems
• seeing or hearing things that are not there, or believing things that are untrue
• problems with coordination or controlling movements
• swollen ankles, a fast heartbeat, coughing, and extreme tiredness, which could be signs of heart issues
• easy bruising, fatigue, nosebleeds, and breathlessness, which may indicate blood disorders
• changes in mood, such as talking more than usual, feeling unusually excited, restless, irritable, or aggressive, which are more likely in children or adults over 65
• Anyone experiencing memory problems, such as difficulty remembering things or amnesia, is advised to book an appointment with their doctor.

In rare cases, clonazepam can trigger a serious allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of any medication.