Stress Awareness Month: Protecting Your Eyes, Ears, and Overall Health

April is Stress Awareness Month, an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about stress and its impact on our health. At OutsideClinic, we understand that stress can influence not only our mental wellbeing but also our eye and hearing health. In this blog post, we'll discuss the effects of stress on our eyes and ears, as well as provide some useful tips to help you manage stress effectively.

The Link Between Stress and Eye Health

Stress can have a significant impact on our eye health. When we experience stress, our body releases a hormone called cortisol, which in turn can cause inflammation and oxidative stress. This can contribute to various eye issues such as:

Eye strain: When we're stressed, we tend to spend more time focusing on screens, which can lead to eye strain, dryness, and discomfort. Taking regular breaks and using the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) can help alleviate eye strain.

Glaucoma: Elevated stress levels may increase intraocular pressure, a risk factor for glaucoma. Although the relationship between stress and glaucoma is not fully understood, managing stress may help reduce the risk of developing certain forms of glaucoma. 

Central Serous Retinopathy (CSR): CSR is a condition where fluid accumulates under the retina, causing vision distortion. The cause of CSR is unknown but treatment usually involved stress reduction and, in some cases, medication. 

The Connection Between Stress and Hearing Health

Stress can also negatively affect our hearing health. Excess stress may contribute to the following hearing issues:

Tinnitus: Stress can exacerbate tinnitus, a condition characterised by ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or meditation may help alleviate tinnitus symptoms.

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL): SSHL is a rapid loss of hearing that occurs in one or both ears. While the exact cause is unknown, research suggests that stress may play a role in the development of this condition. Prompt treatment, often with steroids, is crucial for recovery.

Tips for Managing Stress

To protect your eye and hearing health, as well as improve your overall wellbeing, consider adopting the following stress-management techniques:

Exercise regularly: Physical activity is a proven stress reliever. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week.

Prioritise sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for stress reduction. Create a sleep-friendly environment and establish a consistent bedtime routine.

Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help calm the mind and reduce stress.

Connect with others: Spending time with friends and family, or joining a support group, can provide emotional support and help combat stress.

Seek professional help: If stress is significantly impacting your daily life, consider speaking to a mental health professional who can offer personalised guidance and support.

Stress Awareness Month serves as a reminder to prioritise our mental wellbeing and recognise its connection to our eye and hearing health. By understanding the impact of stress and adopting healthy coping strategies, we can work towards a more balanced and healthier life. If you have concerns about your eye or hearing health, reach out to our team at OutsideClinic to schedule an appointment with one of our professionals.