Follow these tips to reduce the risk of dry eye syndrome
Our favourite thing to do is get engrossed in to a fantastic novel but reading for a prolonged period of time can increase the risk of dry eye syndrome.
Although we can’t deny we love a good read, it can cause chaos with our eyes. Research shows that when we read it reduces our blink rate by about a third which can lead to a higher rate of tear evaporation, which is one of the main causes for dry eye syndrome.
Hay Festival has been running for 25 years and aims to bring together writers and avid readers. The Spectrum Thea stand at the festival discovered that many readers were commenting on their eyes becoming sore and dry after a short period of time however there are many ways to help reduces the chances of dry eye syndrome.
Dr Eye specialist Sarah Farrant gives us her top tips on how to reduce the strain on eyes when reading:
1. “Just being aware of the effects of a reduced blink rate can help readers reduce the effects. If you are working at a computer, make a rule that every time you hit the return button you blink. If you are reading then do the same every time you reach a full stop.”
2. “Use the 20.20.20 rule. Every 20 minutes look 20 feet away for 20 seconds, blinking regularly. This will reduce the strain on your eyes and help rehydrate and lubricate them.”
3. “Hyabak Dry Eye drops have a unique new formula that actually work to reduce the tear evaporation by slowing the natural osmosis that occurs across the tear film of the eye. This provides sufferers with prolonged lubrication and hydration to significantly reduce the symptoms of Dry Eye”
4. "If you are experiencing any eye discomfort make an appointment for an eye examination. Not only do they test your vision but they also look at the general eye health and will be able to spot any potential problems early to help you minimise the effects.”
By Claire Lancaster
Tagged in Books