As the academic year comes to an end, lakhs of students are preparing to givetheir final examinations. This is a period of anxiety and stress coupled with long hours of study. In the midst of all the exam preparation, one crucial aspect is often overlooked: eye health , which is crucial to the outcome of the examinations.
Students experience eye fatigue as a result of the ever-increasing demand for digital learning and screen time, coupled with prolonged study sessions. Symptoms such as dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and migraines are a common concern . They result in difficulty among students to study and increase stress levels for them and their parents. It is important for everyone involved students, parents, teachers, and doctors to work together to prioritize eye health among students, in the lead up to the examinations.
To combat eye strain and enhance efficiency during examination preparation, students may adopt a few measures that will ensure a healthier and smoother study experience.
1. Get a comprehensive eye examination: Before diving into exam preparation, it is advisable that students get a comprehensive eye examination done by an ophthalmologist. This helps rule out any change in glass prescription and will help identify any potential eye issues that may arise.
2. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Take regular breaks during the study sessions to prevent fatigue from prolonged near activity. Adhering to the 20-20-20 rule—looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes—helps relax the eye muscles and shift focus from near to far distances.
3. Frequent blinking: Students should blink frequently to prevent dryness, itching, and eye fatigue, which can occur during extended study sessions.
4. Maintain correct posture: Maintain a proper posture and reading distance to prevent neck and back problems. Students should sit upright with their backs straight to avoid excessive strain on their necks and backs.
5. Limit digital gadget use: While it may be unavoidable for the purpose of studying, students should restrict their use of digital gadgets for entertainment. When using screens, opt for larger screens positioned at eye level. Use screen protectors to reduce glare and adjust brightness levels for comfortable viewing.
6. Avoid direct exposure to air conditioning: Sitting directly in front of an air conditioner, cooler, or fan can dry out the eyes. Students should sit in well-illuminated and ventilated rooms to reduce eye strain and discomfort.
7. Prioritize physical activity and sleep: Students should engage in at least an hour of physical activity daily and maintain a healthy sleep schedule to promote overall well-being and relaxation.
8. Stay hydrated: Students should remain hydrated and consume a healthy diet to support their overall health and well-being. Dehydration during the scorching summer months can exacerbate restlessness and migraine.
Let's create a supportive environment and offer emotional support to students for the couple of weeks before and during the examinations. Prioritizing eye care and adopting healthy habits can help students navigate their examinations with greater ease and efficiency and confidence.
About LVPEI: Established in 1987, with the vision,” to create excellent and equitable eye care systems that reach all those in need,” the L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), a comprehensive eye health facility, is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Prevention of Blindness.
In pursuance of this vision, LVPEI clinicians and scientists work at the cutting edge of eye research. Through its five-tier ‘‘Eye Health Pyramid’ model, it has till date offered over 36.89 million services (3 crores 68 lakh services), with more than 50% entirely free of cost, irrespective of the complexity of care needed. For further information, visit the Institute’s website, www.lvpei.org.