Beyond Phone Screens: 8 Habits Affecting Cambodian Eye Health

In Cambodia, the impact of prolonged smartphone use on eye health is widely recognized. However, it has become clear that other surprising daily habits are also increasing the risk of vision loss and eye strain. Koh Santepheap Khmer reports that experts are urging the public to pay attention to these practices. Specifically, insufficient blinking during reading or screen focus causes tears to evaporate faster, leading to dry eyes. As a countermeasure, consciously increasing blinks and practicing the '20-20-20 rule' (looking at a distance of 20 feet for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) are recommended. Furthermore, using smartphones in dark environments and the habit of rubbing eyes should be avoided. The strong screen light in darkness tires the eyes, and frequent rubbing can damage the cornea. For itchy or uncomfortable eyes, warm compresses with a clean, cool towel or the use of appropriate artificial tears are suggested as alternatives. Lack of eye protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays is also a factor that increases the risk of long-term eye diseases. When outdoors, wearing sunglasses that block UVA and UVB is recommended. Additionally, self-medication with eye drops, especially regular use of decongestants, can worsen symptoms and requires caution. Diet also affects eye health. A diet high in fat, sugar, and salt can negatively impact eye health and blood flow. Insufficient sleep, smoking, and passive smoking also have similar effects. A balanced diet, adequate sleep, and quitting smoking are essential for long-term eye health maintenance. In conclusion, maintaining eye health is not just about reducing smartphone usage time. A comprehensive review of habits, including conscious blinking, eye protection, appropriate use of eye drops, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and avoiding smoking, is believed to contribute to preserving vision among the Cambodian population.