We should protect our eyes from harm

LOOKING after your eyes is important at the best of times. But during the coronavirus pandemic, our lifestyles have changed dramatically.

Many of us are now spending much more time on laptops and smartphones, tackling DIY and gardening projects, and making the most of the good weather by taking our permitted exercise in the sun.

Staying active and trying new things during lockdown is a great idea. But some of these activities can put your eyes at risk if the right safety measures aren’t taken.

Though optometrists and eye casualty clinics are still open and ready to help in an emergency, we should all be trying to protect our eyes from harm as much as possible at this time.

Here are a few top tips from RNIB Cymru to keep your eyes safe and well:

■ When out in the sunshine, protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses or glasses/contact lenses with a build in UV filter. Make sure that your sunglasses have 100 per cent UV protection and carry the British Standard or CE Mark.

■ Stay safe by always wearing safety goggles when sawing, sanding, drilling, hammering or using chemicals. Always make sure there is enough light to see what you are doing, be aware of low branches or debris on your lawn when mowing, and wear protective eye wear when pruning.

■ Screens don’t cause permanent damage to your eyes, and there is no evidence that the blue light from screens is harmful. However, many people who use screens for long periods of time complain of digital eye strain, which is not permanently harmful but can cause discomfort.

■ Take frequent breaks away from your screen and monitor the amount of time children spend on devices. Make sure the general lighting in the room where you’re working is adequate but try to avoid any glare on the screen.

■ Make sure you maintain good hygiene. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before putting in or taking out your contact lenses, and try to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes throughout the day. If you are unwell with coronavirus, as with any infection, you should not wear your contact lenses, even if your symptoms are mild. If you have been prescribed eye drops, do not stop using them unless advised otherwise

■ Eating a healthy balanced diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, and keeping as active as you can at home, can help keep yourself and your eyes healthy. If you have conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure then looking after your general health can help to control these conditions, which is important, as these conditions can also affect your eye health.

If you have any concerns about your vision or eye heath, contact your normal optometrist (optician) by phone. They can talk to you about your symptoms and make a plan of action, which may include a face to face examination if necessary. You should seek immediate help if you experience a sudden change in your vision.

If you are struggling to get help, call 111 or NHS Wales Direct for further advice, or check whether your hospital has an advice line for emergencies.

And if you have any questions or concerns about general eye health and wellbeing, get in touch with RNIB via our Helpline: 0303 123 9999 or helpline@rnib.org.uk.

Ansley Workman Director RNIB Cymru