Optometrist and Branch Manager Shaidatina Syafiqah Shahrani from Zeiss Vision Center said : “ Most of the time , when a patient walks into an eye care practice , they complain of burning sensation , eye discomfort , blurriness , or headache , and they are not aware of the cause .

“ So , an optometrist will conduct a comprehensive examination , which includes history and a background check apart from examining the eyes and vision test .”

Shaidatina shared that DES was one of the most common eye issues diagnosed in this digital age , especially among those aged 20 to 30 . And the prevalence has increased during the pandemic , including among the younger population .

Identifying the root cause

“ When a patient comes in with symptoms such as dry eyes and headache , we will conduct a comprehensive examination to identify the root cause of the symptoms experienced .

“ We conduct a medical history and lifestyle check to determine risks of certain eye diseases and vision disorders and understand the association between lifestyle and the visual and eye problem .

“ Most of the time , the patients do not realise that they are experiencing DES symptoms caused by using digital devices for an extended time .

“ We will then do eye tests , examining the eye power and anterior and posterior eye health , using an autorefractor , slip lamp , tonometer , and so on in the examination room . For dry eyes , we also do a tear breakup time ( TBUT ) test to examine and determine the severity .”

Treatment methods for DES

There are several ways to treat DES . First is using protective lenses with anti-reflective coating to reduce glare and a blue light filter to shield the eyes from harmful blue

lights emitted by digital screens .

“ Some designs of computer glasses also have a relaxing power feature at the bottom area of the lens which ensures the eyes do not strain when looking at screens .

“ Patients can also opt for a contact lens approach . We have the ACUVUE Oasys contact lens made from silicone hydrogel . It allows more oxygen to reach the eye , preventing the eyes from drying out .

“ ACUVUE Oasys also comes with HydraLuxe technology , which spreads tears evenly on the eye . These lenses will keep eyes moist and refreshed for the whole day . Most of our customers find the contact lenses helpful and comfortable .”

She advised the importance of having the correct prescription glasses . Otherwise , she said , the eyes will strain to see the screen .

She continued : “ We also remind our patients to practice the 20-20-20 rule ; for every 20 minutes of near work or digital screen use , focus the eyes on a non-digital object 20 feet away for 20 seconds . Patients can also use eye drops to lubricate their eyes when their eyes feel dry .”

She said a warm eye compress was also effective in relieving dry eye symptoms . Soak a clean cloth in warm , clean water , wring the cloth and place the warm , damp cloth over the closed eyelids for about five

Shaidatina Syafiqah Shahrani

Eyez Optometry Group founder Kevin Siew

minutes .

The moisture of the compress hydrates the eyes , and the warmth soothes and relaxes the eye to relieve any pain or muscle spasms that may accompany dry eyes .

Premium vision care and service

“ Zeiss Vision Center is an optical shop , where we offer a balanced approach to all aspects of optometry service , like frames , lenses and as well as comprehensive eye examinations ,” shared Shaidatina .

“ We aim to combine eye care professionals ’ clinical and optometric skills and ZEISS ’ expertise in products , technology and processes to provide the ultimate vision care experience for our customers . Our first outlet is located in Pavilion Elite , Kuala Lumpur .

“ Eyez Optometry Group founder Kevin Siew has more than 30 years ’ experience in the optical industry with an intense passion for improving the quality of vision care among our local and surrounding communities ,” she said .

Kevin started his first eye care practice , I-Care Optometry , in 2001 to serve the neighbourhood with premium vision care and products .

Later in 2007 , he expanded his practice into Eyez Optometry at Bangsar Village II , excelling with an innovative vision to provide performance-driven and speciality design eyewear . Over time , Eyez Optometry gained traction through good feedback . The pursuit to source for out-of-the-world vision care products became an ongoing mission .

Thus in 2017 , Eyez Optometry spearheaded and brought the first ever ZEISS Vision Center ( ZVC ) concept store from Germany into Malaysia . It is wellequipped with the latest digitalised eyecare instruments from Germany , featuring a 21st-century optical retail experience accomplished with a wide range of superior ophthalmic lenses . Eyez Optometry Group has 13 outlets across Malaysia staffed by professional eyecare practitioners . – The Health