Holiday Stress and Eye Health: How Stress Can Affect Retinal Conditions
Stress is a normal part of life but can intensify during the holiday season. Between buying gifts, organizing family get-togethers, and taking endless trips to the grocery store for holiday meal prep, it’s easy to get overwhelmed quickly. This additional stress can interfere with our health, including our vision. Learn more about stress and retinal health, as well as how to stay calm during the busy holiday season.
The Connection Between Stress and Retinal Conditions
You might not associate stress with retinal problems, but certain conditions, such as central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC), have a strong connection. CSC occurs when fluid accumulates under the retina, leading to distorted vision. When we experience stress, our bodies release a hormone called cortisol, which can lead to inflammation and fluid leakage.
Moreover, stress can influence our breathing, affecting the amount of oxygen transported in the blood to the retina. If the retina does not receive sufficient oxygen, it can result in cell damage. For individuals with diabetes, stress can also impact blood sugar and lead to a retinal condition called diabetic retinopathy.
Tips for Minimizing Stress During the Holidays
It can be difficult to navigate the stress of the holiday season, but there are steps you can take to find peace and enjoy this time of year, such as:
- Not over-scheduling yourself: Remember, you don’t have to do it all. Determine what you really enjoy versus what you feel you’re supposed to do.
- Managing gift giving: Make a budget and stick to it. You’re not obligated to spend beyond your means.
- Taking time for yourself: Try to take a break from the holiday chaos to enjoy a good book, take a warm bath, or take a nap.
- Creating a stress-free environment: Make your home a place of relaxation. Break out your favorite candles, play festive music or your favorite songs while you wrap presents or cook, and try to stay in the present moment.
Schedule an Appointment with a Retina Specialist
The stress of the holidays can impact your retinal health, so it’s important to schedule an eye exam to catch any retinal conditions before they lead to permanent vision loss. If you’d like to schedule an appointment with a retina specialist, californiaretina.com/appointments contact California Retina Consultants today. We proudly serve patients throughout Central California, including Bakersfield, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Valencia.