- Advertisement -
RAWALPINDI, Jul 16 (APP): With rising cell phone screen time, increasing temperature heat and worsening environmental pollution, protecting eye health is more critical than ever. Practical measures like the 20-20-20 rule, UV-blocking sunglasses, and artificial tears can combat digital strain, heat-related dryness, and pollution-induced irritation. Maintaining optimal eye temperature is equally vital to prevent discomfort and ensure long-term vision health in today’s demanding environments.
Dr. Zain, a young ophthalmologist at Al Shifa Trust Eye Hospital, shared practicable solutions to safeguard vision. In an exclusive interaction with the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), he emphasized adapting eye care to modern lifestyle challenges.
Talking on ‘digital eye strain’, Dr. Zain highlighted the prolonged exposure to the cell phone screen causing dryness and blurred vision.
“Every 20 minutes, one should remain 20 feet away from the cell phone screen for 20 seconds to relax your eyes,” he advised.
He also recommended keeping devices 18–24 inches away and using blue light filters to reduce strain. The blue light filter feature is available in the smart phones with different names including eye care mode, blue light filter etc. By using the feature, human eyes receive reduced blue light from the cell phone screens.
Dr. Zain underlined the need for proper screen habits.
“Dim lighting and reduced blinking dry out eyes,” he said.
He suggested adjusting screen brightness regularly and ensuring adequate room lighting.
“This will help the eyes remain moisturized”, he said.
Regarding hot weather, he stressed protecting eyes from UV rays and dehydration.
“Sunglasses with full UVA/UVB protection are essential,” Dr. Zain said.
Drinking sufficient water supports tear production, while avoiding eye rubbing prevents irritation in dusty, hot conditions.
The most dangerous, and mostly invisible threat for eyes is environmental pollutants, particularly the air mixed harmful particles. it is imperative to shield eyes from harmful particles.
Having been exposed to the diverse harmful situations, eye care has become important it was never before. Besides using sunglasses and digital strain management, eyes need maintained internal temperature and, sometimes preservative-free artificial tears to clear irritants.
“Extreme heat or cold disrupts moisture balance,” Dr. Zain said and recommended warm compresses for 5–10 minutes to soothe eyes and humidifiers to stabilize indoor moisture levels.
On the other side, adequate sleep and regular eye exams are crucial remain vital elements of eye care.