Experts recommend a regular eye care regime
CHRONIC eye conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) and dry eye disease are on the rise in Australia and are one of the most common reasons people see an optometrist. However, many people are in the dark when it comes to the importance of regular eye hygiene.
Optometrist, Dr Jim Kokkinakis said, “Why do you brush and floss your teeth? Not just because your parents taught you to, you’re preventing serious dental disease that can be crippling, both physically and financially. So, why do people often wait until something goes wrong with their eyes before taking care of them?”
Dr Kokkinakis states that good eye health is often ignored. “Too much screen time on electronic devices, exposure to air conditioning and using make-up that has become contaminated are some common mistakes. Dismissing symptoms such as dry, burning, or red eyes can lead to the development of larger issues that can end up becoming costly to treat.
“Information is key. It is important for people to understand that regular eye health maintenance is crucial, and it’s all the better if they get into the habit – before they present with a severe eye disease.”
Talk to your optometrist about developing an eye care regime that is right for you.
Symptoms to be aware of include:
- Dry, itchy or red eyes
- The feeling of a ‘foreign body’ or sand in the eye
- Crusting of eyelashes (particularly on awakening); flaking of the skin around the eyelids
- Burning or excessive watering of the eye
- Sensitivity to light; blurred vision
