Experts, pointing to the importance of choosing eyeglasses for eye health protection, emphasized that in addition to the frame being suitable for the ear and nose structure, the eyeglass lens must also meet the needs. Experts, stating that eyeglass lenses should be chosen in accordance with reflection and refraction conditions, also warned that incorrectly used and expired contact lenses can pose risks to eye health.
World Sight Day is observed annually on the second Thursday of October as an awareness day aiming to focus global attention on all visual impairments, including blindness.
Lecturer Ömer Faruk Okuyucu, Head of Üsküdar University Opticianry Program, gave advice on eyeglass selection and eye health protection in a statement made on the occasion of October 13 World Sight Day.
Many eye-related problems can be experienced
Referring to eye-related health problems, Ömer Faruk Okuyucu said, “Vision problems, redness in the eyes, burning, dryness, focusing problems, reactive sensitivities to light can be listed as main headings. While some of these occur as a result of genetic predispositions, some can be attributed to the lack of necessary care for our eyes, an organ that directly affects our quality of life.”
The amount of light is important in screen usage
Ömer Faruk Okuyucu stated that optical requirements must first be met in home and office environments to protect eye health, and added:
“To elaborate on optical requirements, lighting, ventilation, and humidity in the environment can be mentioned. There is a relationship between these elements and the environment and activity, which we call contrast. For example, when using a computer or mobile phone, if the screen light is too bright and the environment is dark, it causes the light to affect our eyes. This will have effects such as focus shift, excessive strain, and dryness. The result will be burning, redness, and corneal irritation. After straining, spasm reactions appear as seen in other muscles, leading to blurred vision, focusing problems (due to inability of eye muscles to contract), and nervous headaches.”
Eye discomforts should not be neglected
Emphasizing that eye discomforts should not be neglected, Ömer Faruk Okuyucu said, “Firstly, if our eyes have a hereditary condition such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, it is essential to have initial examinations and routine check-ups for these. Of course, following your doctor's treatment and routine recommendations in this regard is a primary requirement for eye health.”
Devices should be used at a certain distance
Stating, “We must maintain our ideal distance from computer, tablet, and mobile phone screens, which are now indispensable in our daily lives,” Ömer Faruk Okuyucu advised, “Except for special situations, we should look at these devices from an average distance of 55-60 cm. Of course, keeping them further away is also not correct. The screen should be aligned with the upper horizon line so that the eye position does not strain the neck and distort the angle. This method of use will also prevent eye fatigue.”
Is the tear film sufficient?
Ömer Faruk Okuyucu noted that it is necessary to consult an ophthalmologist to ascertain whether tear production is sufficient and to strictly follow the doctor's recommendations, also emphasizing the importance of correct eyeglass selection.
Eyeglass lens selection is important
Regarding eyeglass selection, Ömer Faruk Okuyucu advised, “It is important both for the frame's effect on the ear and nose structure and for the lens to meet your actual needs. Furthermore, it is crucial that the correlation between the lens focus and the eye's focal point is observed during lens mounting. Lenses must be chosen in accordance with reflection and refraction conditions.”
Eyeglasses should be preferred for long-term screen use
Referring to the points to consider in contact lens usage, Ömer Faruk Okuyucu said, “Lenses should be used correctly. Using incorrectly used and expired contact lenses can pose risks to eye health. Especially during long-term screen use, eyeglasses, not lenses, should be preferred to avoid problems like dryness and stinging.”
Recommending taking a few-minute breaks every half an hour during long-term screen use, Ömer Faruk Okuyucu said, “Consciously and frequently blink to stimulate tear production and keep your cornea healthier.”