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Bengaluru is witnessing an alarming rise in the cases of dry eye syndrome, a condition that is affecting both children and adults. According to The Times of India, doctors in the city have seen a sharp increase in the number of patients over the past few years, with lifestyle factors such as excessive screen time, prolonged exposure to air conditioning and deteriorating air quality being major contributors.
Dr Sampath Kumar, pediatrician at Kinder Hospital, spoke to the publication about the issue and said that there has been a dramatic increase in the number of children suffering from dry eyes. Ten years ago there were only two to three cases a month. By 2019, this number increased to five, and now, in 2024, doctors are seeing 10-12 cases monthly, he said, calling the situation worrying.
The shift towards more screen-based activities along with staying indoors in air-conditioned spaces has been a significant factor. The pandemic, which forced many children to switch to digital learning, worsened this trend, the report said. Additionally, Bengaluru’s air quality is continuously deteriorating, with pollutants in the atmosphere exacerbating the symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
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Another doctor, Dr Yogesh Kumar Gupta, consultant pediatrician at Fortis Hospital, has also noticed a sharp rise in cases, saying he earlier used to see one to two cases of dry eyes in children per week. Now, it has reached five to eight cases. As quoted in the publication, they pointed out that increase in allergies due to pollution, prolonged exposure to screens, dehydration and poor sleep patterns are the major reasons.
Dry eye syndrome is not just affecting children. Adults, especially those aged 20 to 40, are also reporting an increase in symptoms. Dr ML Sujatha, cataract and cornea surgeon at Sparsh Hospital, reportedly said that dry eye cases have increased by 20-30 per cent in Bengaluru in the last year. He said that in addition to increased use of digital devices, older adults, especially women, face risks due to underlying health conditions such as diabetes or hormonal changes.
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How can dry eye syndrome be prevented?
Doctors recommend limiting screen time and following the ’20-20-20′ rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. The report says regular breaks from screens, ensuring proper hydration and adequate sleep are also important in reducing the risk.
One can maintain eye health by blinking frequently, using air purifiers in indoor spaces to reduce pollutants, and ensuring a diet rich in nutrients that support eye health. Doctors said that if you experience persistent dryness, redness or discomfort in your eyes, it is important to consult an eye specialist to find out the root cause.
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