March-April. 2025 | The HEALTH
EYES HEALTH 15
Digital eye strain symptoms.
“ back-to-back” screen time, leaving little opportunity for eye breaks.
A BEACON OF AWARENESS
Darran is optimistic about the upcoming Johnson & Johnson Institute Symposium( JJI), anticipating it will serve as a vital platform for raising awareness about digital eye strain.
“ The idea of the symposium and having people come together is just raising awareness.” He hopes the event will encourage discussions about lifestyle choices, ergonomics, and the importance of regular eye care.
He believes that industry leaders, eye care professionals( ECPs), and the media can collaborate to make DES a prominent topic of conversation.“ The more that people become aware, the easier it is for us to have those conversations with patients.”
He emphasised the importance of equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle DES effectively. By fostering a
dry eye symptoms.
He also emphasised the importance of a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish.“ A good diet can support eye health and reduce dryness.”
• Regular Eye Examinations Darran stressed the importance of regular eye tests.“ Catching up with your eye care professional should be close to the top of your list.”
Regular check-ups can help identify any underlying issues, such as uncorrected refractive errors, which can worsen DES.
• Encouraging Outdoor Time Incorporating outdoor time into daily routines can also benefit eye health. Darran suggested that spending time outdoors, away from screens, can provide a much-needed break for the eyes.
“ Even if it’ s humid outside,
dialogue around the implications of increased screen time, Darran hopes the symposium will lead to innovative solutions for managing DES.
“ If digital screen usage is not going to go away, then what can we do to provide knowledge and visual solutions?” he asked, highlighting the need for ongoing education and awareness.
As digital eye strain continues to affect an ever-growing population, awareness and proactive management become essential.
Darran’ s insights serve as a crucial reminder that while technology is an integral part of modern life, it is vital to prioritise eye health. Regular check-ups, smart device use, and ergonomic adjustments can make a significant difference in managing DES effectively.
Engaging in conversations at events like the JJI can further enhance understanding and pave the way for innovative approaches to this pressing issue.
get up early or go out later in the day,” he encouraged, noting that natural light can help alleviate symptoms of DES.
Darran’ s strategies for managing DES offer practical solutions for individuals navigating a screen-heavy lifestyle. By implementing these recommendations, individuals can enhance their visual comfort and maintain their overall eye health.
Proper eye care transforms lives
WITH the proliferation of screens in our daily lives, optometrists like Darran Yeow, co-founder of Insightful Eye Care, are witnessing firsthand the impact of this modern ailment.
Darran shared two compelling case studies that illustrate the diverse effects of DES on patients and the transformative power of proper eye care.
TEENAGER’ S STRUGGLE WITH FOCUS
One notable case involves a 14-year-old boy who came to Darran’ s practice complaining of significant headaches and difficulty concentrating.
“ He wasn’ t enjoying school much because he wasn’ t able to see clearly,” Darran recalled. The boy’ s issues stemmed from uncorrected short-sightedness and astigmatism, impairing his ability to see the board and causing him to lean closer to his devices.
After a thorough examination, Darran prescribed glasses with an anti-fatigue lens designed to ease the strain of focusing on both the classroom board and digital screens. He also fitted the teenager with contact lenses, allowing for greater comfort during sports.
“ This young patient was thrilled to have a clearer vision and the confidence that came with it.
“ Sometime later, during a follow-up visit, the teenager shared his
Darran Yeow on slit lamp with patient success in studies, now pursuing a degree in computer science.
“ He mentioned how happy he was with his vision,” Darran added, underscoring the profound impact of proper vision correction.
ACTIVE BABY BOOMER’ S TRANSITION
In contrast, Darran’ s second case features a baby boomer juggling multiple pairs of glasses for different tasks.
This patient, an active individual participating in triathlons, found the constant switching of glasses cumbersome. Darran suggested multifocal contact lenses to eliminate the need for multiple pairs.
“ We discussed how these lenses could allow him to see clearly at all distances without the hassle.”
After trying several options, the patient found a comfortable fit that suited his needs.“ He raved about the freedom these contact lenses provided,” Darran recounted, enhancing his overall quality of life.
These case studies highlight the varied manifestations of DES. Darran emphasises that while symptoms can differ, they often stem from prolonged screen use and uncorrected vision.
“ With the rise of digital devices, we’ re seeing more patients with symptoms ranging from minor discomfort to significant impairment.
“ Whether it’ s a teenager grappling with schoolwork or an active adult managing multiple tasks, proper eye care can make a significant difference.”
Through dedicated care and appropriate interventions, individuals can navigate their digital lives with greater ease, ensuring that their vision remains sharp and their eyes healthy. – The HEALTH
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