The Nepali Optometrist

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Author: Navya Drishti Eyecare

Learning Enthusiast.

Dry Eyes and Digital Devices

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) also known as ‘Digital Eye Strain’ as described by the American Optometric Association is a group of vision and eye-related problems that occurs due to the overexposure of our eyes to digital screens. The most common symptoms of CVS include:

  • Eye strain (eye ache, double vision, and difficulty focusing)
  • Headache (often around the forehead and temples)
  • Dry eyes (irritated and discomfort due to reduced blink rate)
  • Neck and shoulder pain (usually due to poor posture and prolonged screen use)

DIGITAL DEVICES AND DRY EYES :

In this modernized era, almost every individual is working in front of laptops and computers and using mobile phones. The blink rate is generally 10-15 times per minute. Dry eyes due to prolonged use of digital screens, also known as computer vision syndrome (CVS) or digital eye strain, is a common issue in today’s digital age. Staring at screens for long periods can lead to reduced blinking, which causes tears to evaporate more quickly, resulting in dryness and discomfort

We normally think that our eyes have water (tears) but our eyes have oil and mucus inside them, which are being secreted. There’s a thin coat in front of the cornea called the Tearfilm, that moisturizes and lubricates our eyes.  As there’s a decrease in the blink rate, the tear layer decreases causing Dry Eye Syndrome hence not providing nourishment and lubrication to the eyes. This will also lead to eye irritation and discomfort. As found by the studies, eventually the eyes may be vulnerable to infections.

How can we help it?

Staring at screens for extended periods can lead to reduced blinking, which causes tears to evaporate more quickly, resulting in dryness and discomfort. To treat dry eyes, first one must diagnose it carefully by a comprehensive eye examination and history taking. The patient’s blink rate and condition of the eyelid and cornea must be evaluated. Then, after proper refraction, the measurement of the quality and quantity of tears should be done thoroughly. Here are some strategies to help alleviate dry eyes associated with digital screen use:

Dry Eye Treatment

©American Optometric Association[/caption]

  1. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something at least 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a chance to rest and helps reduce strain.
  2. Blink frequently: Remind yourself to blink more often while using digital devices. Blinking helps spread tears evenly over the surface of your eyes, keeping them moist.
  3. Adjust screen settings: Reduce the brightness and glare of your screen to minimize eye strain. Adjust the text size and contrast for better readability.
  4. Maintain proper lighting: Ensure that the lighting in your workspace is adequate and doesn’t cause glare on your screen. Avoid harsh overhead lighting and position your screen to minimize reflections.
  5. Use artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide relief from dryness and irritation. Use them regularly, especially if you’re spending long hours in front of a screen.
  6. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your body and eyes hydrated. Dehydration can worsen dry eye symptoms.
  7. Take regular breaks: Give your eyes frequent breaks from screen time. Use these breaks to rest your eyes, blink, and focus on objects at varying distances.
  8. Consider computer glasses: Prescription or non-prescription computer glasses with anti-reflective coatings can reduce glare and minimize eye strain during prolonged screen use.
  9. Position your screen correctly: Ensure that your screen is positioned at eye level and at an appropriate distance (about arm’s length away) to reduce strain on your eyes and neck. Correcting sitting position and viewing distance.
  10. Use screen filters: Consider using screen filters or blue light-blocking glasses to reduce exposure to blue light, which can contribute to eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns.

Also,

  1. Adding tears: Usually, mild cases are treated using artificial tear drops. A preservative-free eye drop is preferable for long-term use.
  2. Increasing tear production: Increasing tear production by taking omega-3 fatty acids as a nutritional supplement may help.
  3. Conserving tears: Allowing our natural tears to stay in our eyes for a longer time can help our eyes stay moist.
  4. Reduce evaporation: Reduce room temperature with humidifiers.
  5. Treatment of lids like Blepharitis and lid hygiene is important. If any inflammation around the eyes, a warm compress or lid massage might help.

For CVS: Usually,  improving the working condition in front of our screen can help ease our eye irritation and discomfort.

©Théa Laboratories[/caption]

Optometry and Optometrist

OPTOMETRY word is derived from a Greek word “opsis- view” and “metron– something used to measure or rule“. The word ‘OPTO’ is shortened form derived from a Greek word ophthalmos meaning  ‘EYE’. Optometry is a branch of healthcare focused on the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders and diseases related to the eyes and visual system.
OPTOMETRISTS are the health care professionals who provide the primary healthcare through  comprehensive eye examinations. They evaluate the visual system, its defects and abnormalities as well as correction of refractive errors by the means of glasses, contact lenses etc. and help in the treatment of different eye disease. Optometrists also play a crucial role in detecting systemic health conditions that may manifest symptoms in the eyes, such as diabetes or hypertension.

When was it started?

The origins of optometry can be traced back to ancient civilizations where rudimentary forms of vision care and eye examination were practiced. However, modern optometry as a distinct profession with standardized practices began to emerge in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The first optometry school, the Pennsylvania College of Optometry, was founded in 1919, marking a significant milestone in the formalization of optometric education. Prior to this, opticians and ophthalmologists often performed the roles that optometrists do today, but there was a growing recognition of the need for specialized training in vision care.

Since then, optometry has evolved considerably, with advancements in diagnostic technologies, treatment modalities, and expanded scopes of practice. Today, optometrists play a crucial role in primary eye care and are essential members of the healthcare team, providing comprehensive vision and eye health services to people of all ages.

World Optometry Day was started in 1986 by the International Optometric and Optical League to celebrate the growing profession of optometry in the world.

Roles Of An Optometrist

Optometrists play several important roles in providing eye and vision care to individuals of all ages. Some of the key roles of an optometrist include:

1. Primary Eye Care Provider: Optometrists serve as primary eye care providers, performing comprehensive eye examinations to assess visual acuity, refractive errors, and the overall health of the eyes. They diagnose and treat common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

2. Prescribing Corrective Lenses: Optometrists prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct refractive errors and improve visual acuity. They determine the appropriate lens power and design based on the individual’s prescription and lifestyle needs.

3. Diagnosing and Managing Eye Diseases: Optometrists are trained to diagnose and manage various eye diseases and conditions, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, cataracts, and dry eye syndrome. They may perform diagnostic tests, such as tonometry, visual field testing, and retinal imaging, to detect and monitor eye diseases.

4. Providing Vision Therapy: Optometrists may offer vision therapy to individuals with binocular vision disorders, amblyopia (lazy eye), and other visual dysfunctions. Vision therapy involves structured exercises and activities designed to improve visual skills, eye coordination, and perception.

5. Treating Eye Injuries and Emergencies: Optometrists provide emergency eye care services for patients who experience eye injuries, infections, or sudden changes in vision. They can evaluate the extent of the injury or condition, administer appropriate treatments, and refer patients to specialists if needed.

6. Managing Pediatric Eye Care: Optometrists specialize in pediatric optometry, providing comprehensive eye care services for infants, children, and adolescents. They assess visual development, screen for vision problems, and address issues such as lazy eye, strabismus (eye misalignment), and learning-related vision problems.

7. Co-Managing with Other Healthcare Professionals: Optometrists collaborate with other healthcare providers, including ophthalmologists, primary care physicians, pediatricians, and specialists, to ensure comprehensive patient care. They may refer patients to other specialists for advanced treatments or surgical interventions as needed.

8. Promoting Eye Health and Education: Optometrists play a crucial role in educating patients about proper eye care practices, including the importance of regular eye examinations, wearing protective eyewear, and maintaining overall eye health. They also raise awareness about common eye conditions and the importance of early detection and treatment.

Overall, optometrists are highly trained healthcare professionals dedicated to preserving and enhancing the vision and eye health of their patients through comprehensive eye care services, preventive measures, and patient education.

Optometry As A Profession

Optometry is a respected and essential profession within the healthcare field that focuses on the examination, diagnosis, and management of vision and eye health. Here are some key aspects that define optometry as a profession:

1. Primary Eye Care: Optometrists are often the first point of contact for individuals seeking eye care. They provide primary eye care services, including comprehensive eye examinations, vision correction with eyeglasses or contact lenses, and the diagnosis and management of common eye conditions.

2. Specialized Training: Optometrists undergo extensive education and training to obtain a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and/or Bachelors Of Optometry. This involves four years of undergraduate study followed by four years of optometry school. During their training, optometry students learn about ocular anatomy and physiology, optics, visual perception, eye diseases, and clinical skills necessary for providing eye care.

3. Scope of Practice: Optometrists have a broad scope of practice that encompasses various aspects of eye and vision care. They are licensed healthcare professionals who can perform eye examinations, prescribe corrective lenses, diagnose and treat eye diseases, and provide pre- and post-operative care for certain eye surgeries.

4. Patient-Centered Care: Optometrists are committed to providing personalized and patient-centered care. They take into account each patient’s unique visual needs, lifestyle factors, and overall health when making recommendations for vision correction or treatment.

5. Advancements in Technology: Optometry is a dynamic profession that continually incorporates advancements in technology to enhance patient care. Optometrists utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and imaging techniques to accurately assess vision and detect eye diseases at an early stage.

6. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Optometrists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including ophthalmologists, primary care physicians, pediatricians, and opticians, to ensure comprehensive patient care. They may refer patients to specialists for advanced treatments or surgical interventions when necessary.

7. Community Engagement: Optometrists play an active role in promoting eye health and raising awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations and preventive measures. They may participate in community outreach programs, school vision screenings, and public health initiatives to address vision-related issues within the community.

Overall, optometry is a fulfilling and rewarding profession that allows practitioners to make a meaningful impact on the lives of their patients by preserving and enhancing their vision and eye health. Also,

Optometry has been positioned 2nd best profession by the US News and World Report Jan 05, 2006
Optometry is reckoned as ‘excellent’ in a guide to careers by the US News and World Report March 19, 2007
Optometry appraised as one of ‘Best Careers 2008’ by US News and World Report Dec 19, 2007