Be Smart in Eye Care Functions of the Eyes Differentiate between brightness and darkness Differentiate various colors Differentiate various shapes Differentiate between coldness and warmth Differentiate between far and near Differentiate between large and small Balancing the body Determining a behaviour Structure of the Eye Visual Transmission Object image captured by eyes are projected on the retina through the pupil, and then transmitted to the brain by optic nerves. The image is finally perceived by the brain and we, in turn, will respond accordingly. Common Eye Diseases of Students 1. Refractive Error   A. Myopia (short-sightedness) Distant object: Image focused in front of the retina, resulting in a blurred vision Near object: Image can be seen clearly Cause: Elongated eyeball Correction: Wear proper glasses with concave lenses for clear vision of distant object B. Hyperopia (long-sightedness) When looking at object: Image is focused behind the retina, resulting in a blurred vision When focusing with extra accommodation: Image becomes clear Cause: Eyeball too short Correction: Wear proper glasses with convex lenses for clear vision without extra accommodation of the eyes C. Astigmatism Unequal curvatures along the cornea causes rays from a luminous point not being focused at a single point on the retina, resulting in blurred images for both distant and near objects     2. Strabismus (squint) Misalignment or asymmetrical position of both eyes 3. Red Eyes Conjunctiva or cornea suffers from viral or bacterial infection, trauma or allergic reaction, resulting in tearing, itching and swelling of the eyes 4. Eye Injury 5. Color Deficiency Decreased ability to identify or distinguish certain colours Ways to Take Care of Your Eyes – DOs Maintain good posture by sitting upright and using chair and desk of suitable height Place reading materials at least 30 cm from the eyes When you read, lighting should be sufficient, even and stable Rest your eyes regularly. After reading or using the computer for 30 to 40 minutes, take a break of 3 to 5 minutes or look at distant objects to relax your eyes When you watch television - Switch on the light in the room - Keep a distance of 6 times the size of the TV screen - TV screen should be at eye level - Repair the TV immediately if flashes and blurred images appeared on the screen Wear quality sunglasses with ultraviolet rays protection under strong sunlight Wear safety goggles if necessary Pay extra attention when using sharp or pointed objects Always be alert to home safety. Handle chemicals with care to avoid them getting into your eyes and causing injury Keep a balanced diet, including taking foods that are rich in Vitamin A, e.g. water melon, tomato, papaya, carrot, other fruits or vegetables in red orange Sufficient sleep can provide your eyes with a good rest Regular exercise provides opportunities for you to relax and also train the coordination ability of your eyes Have regular vision tests for early detection and treatment of any visual defects Wear appropriate glasses. Consult optometrist or ophthalmologist if your glasses are no longer suitable and have them replaced Seek advice from your doctor immediately in case of vision problem, red eyes or any eye discomfort Check the name, dosage and expiry date of eye drugs before applying to the eyes Ways to Take Care of Your Eyes – DON'Ts Cover your eyes with your hair Read under strong lighting Read materials with small prints, poor printing quality, reflective papers or very bright color Read with light shining directly into your eyes Read in moving vehicles Read or watch TV lying down Look directly at strong light Rub your eyes with public towels Swim in contaminated beaches Rub your eyes with your hands Use other people's eye ointments or buy eye drops off the counter when your eyes feel uncomfortable Engage in dangerous activities such as shooting or lighting firecrackers without safety measures One-Minute Self-Reflection Are you always under the following situations? When you read or concentrate on close objects, you always rub your eyes blink your eyes frequently move the book or objects close to your eyes always miss several rows when you read always frown feel tired, irritated, have a headache and eye discomfort When you look at distant objects (e.g. the blackboard in the classroom) , you screw your eyes have to move closer to the object see double images have difficulty in seeing clearly and always copy incorrectly or need to copy from classmates In your daily life, you are always tripped by small objects have difficulty catching moving objects, e.g. balls have a squint * If you find yourself suffering from any of the above problems, you may have visual defect. Please have your eyes checked as soon as possible. *