[Knut]

Originally Posted by bubbsy

thanx for doing this, here are my questions:

1) have astigmatism (one eye much worse than the other) and i hate my glasses (comfort and aesthetic reasons) so whenever i go out for any socializing try to wear contacts. I find my contacts (soft, custom monthly) are always uncomfortable and am always having to blink excessively due to them feeling extremely dry. Interestingly enough, it came to a point where i only where my contacts on nights where i know i'll be drinking as it keeps my mind off it. Anything i can do for this dry/discomfort wearing contacts (eye drops, different contact type, etc)?

sounds like a poor fitting contact lens or a sensitivity to the solution you use. First step would be switch solution brands (Biotrue works well). If that doesn't work then make sure your contacts do not sit in the solution for weeks between uses. If that is the case then you should get fitted for daily contact lenses. No solutions and great for part time use. Dailies now correct up to -2.25 of astigmatism. You can try drops (BLINK) but they will only provide temporary relief.

2) Is it true eating carrots does jack for your eyes ?

if you were malnourished in the third world it would be helpful. Beta-carotene is essential for photo pigment production in the retina (the pigment that responds to photon's of light. We get lots of beta-carotene in our western diet.

3) Is there any truth to looking at screens (tv, computer/laptop, tablet) can cause degradation in eye sight for kids or adults?

young kids - yes. Adults - no. Genetics mostly determine your prescription. Screen time can have small effects on it, but mostly you can blame your ancestors.