Every second Thursday of October is observed as World Sight Day. This was initiated by ‘SightFirstCampaign’ of Lions Club International Foundation back in 2000. The day is celebrated to acknowledge blindness and vision impairment globally. Today is also the day to start taking care of your eyes that help you see all the beauty in this world.
One of the common found diseases among the young professionals is dry eye syndrome (DES). The workplace has unintentionally become a hotspot for this illness in our relentless digital age, making it crucial to address the problem before it becomes chronic.
Dry eye syndrome is a condition in which the eyes stop producing enough tears or tears evaporate quickly making the eye dry. The common symptoms include dryness, redness, itchiness, and sometimes, a paradoxical watery eye. Doctors have suggested that keratoconjunctivitis sicca also DSE is caused by prolonged screen usage, lack of eye exercises and reduced blinking rates. According to a recent study, approximately 60% of people who work in urban office environments experience DES. Blinking 50% less frequently than usual while absorbed in computer screens, the typical Indian professional worsens the dryness.
Here are few suggestions by doctors for better eye health:
- Blinking apps: One can find various apps available on Play Store and App Store that remind you to take regular breaks while working on screen. It is suggested to download the apps for better eye rests.
- Blue-cut glasses: Spectacle wearers should opt for blue-cut lenses that protect from screen harmful effects on eyes. Blue-cut glasses are expensive comparatively but worth the spend.
- The 20-20-20 rule:The 20-second break should be used to focus on something 20 feet away, according to this straightforward yet effective rule. Along with improving posture and lowering the risk of various occupational illnesses, it not only calms the eyes but also provides eye relief.
- Humidifiers in offices:Tear evaporation is significantly sped up by dry, conditioned air. Given this, humidifiers are increasingly being included into modern workplaces to sustain ambient moisture levels that are comfortable for the eyes.
- Artificial tears:Buying lubricating eye drops without a prescription can be a lifesaver for quick relief. As not all formulations may be suited for everyone, these should be taken with caution and under the supervision of a professional.
- Doctor visit: Visit an ophthalmologist if issues persist, where you may be recommended for Dry Eye Step 1 and 2 tests.
