At an event on 29/9, Master, Doctor of First Degree Nguyen Dinh Cang from Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital stated that dry eyes, gritty eyes, eye fatigue, red eyes, or blurred vision are common symptoms but are not always minor issues. Patients need to pay attention to the onset, severity, and progression of symptoms to know when to monitor them and when to seek medical examination.

Eye examination at Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital. Photo: Quynh Tran

In the "Dry Eye Screening and Eye Care Protection in Digital Device Environments" program, launched by FPT Long Chau pharmacy chain and Santen since March, over 2,500 participants were screened. About 75% showed signs of dry eyes at various levels, with most belonging to the 18-40 age group. This data reflects the screened group and does not represent the prevalence in the general community.

According to Dr. Cang, individuals who use phones and computers for extended periods are prone to dry, gritty, and uncomfortable eyes. After age 40, the eyes' ability to adjust also begins to decline, which can cause blurred near vision or difficulty switching between distances. Many people visiting pharmacies describe symptoms like "red eyes," "gritty as if there's sand," or "eye fatigue from screen use" without realizing these are symptoms of an underlying condition.

Dry eyes not only cause discomfort but also significantly impact work performance. Some studies indicate that severe dry eyes can reduce productivity by up to 128 workdays annually. If prolonged, dry eyes can damage the corneal epithelium, leading to keratitis, infection, and scarring that impairs vision.

Individuals working with computers should actively blink frequently, take regular eye breaks, and limit continuous screen time. The 20-20-20 rule can be applied: after every 20 minutes of screen use, look at something 6 meters away for 20 seconds. Increasing workplace humidity also helps reduce dry eye conditions.

If symptoms persist, recur, or affect vision, patients should undergo an eye examination to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Artificial tears may be used in some cases but should follow a doctor's guidance, especially when symptoms are prolonged.

People buying medicine at a pharmacy. Photo: My Huyen

Ahead of World Sight Day on 8/10, Long Chau and Santen announced on 29/9 an expanded collaboration in eye care, focusing on screening activities, consultation, and raising awareness about eye conditions. The two parties plan to train pharmacists and implement a model for doctor consultations and eye problem screenings at several pharmacies.

Le Phuong