Active lifestyle habits help support ocular circulation and may reduce fatigue caused by prolonged screen use.

Protecting eye health involves more than regular eye examinations. Healthy lifestyle habits also play an important role. Recent studies suggest that regular physical activity may have positive effects on eye health, and that light exercises such as brisk walking may support ocular circulation and potentially help protect against certain eye conditions. A sedentary lifestyle can negatively affect not only overall health but also visual well-being. Spending long hours at a desk, prolonged screen use and reduced physical activity may contribute to eye strain, focusing difficulties and dry eye symptoms. In contrast, regular movement can help reduce visual stress caused by maintaining focus on the same point for extended periods, supporting greater visual comfort throughout the day.

Regular walking not only promotes healthy blood circulation throughout the body but may also increase the amount of oxygen reaching ocular tissues. Walking outdoors can be particularly beneficial, helping both the eyes and the mind relax. Experts emphasize that controlled exposure to natural daylight plays an important role in visual development. Time spent in natural light during the day may support the eye’s focusing system and help relieve screen-related eye fatigue. Taking short walking breaks throughout the day can contribute to both physical and mental well-being, while a combination of healthy nutrition, regular sleep and physical activity plays an important role in maintaining visual comfort.

June 2026

Intense UV exposure can damage the cornea and lead to photokeratitis. Experts emphasize that the eyes, just like the skin, need protection from the sun, especially during the summer months.

When the harmful effects of sunlight are discussed, skin health is usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, ultraviolet (UV) rays can also damage the cornea, the outermost layer of the eye. Known as photokeratitis, this condition is more commonly seen during the summer months, particularly at the beach, in snowy environments or after prolonged exposure to sunlight. Ophthalmology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Uğur Ünsal notes that awareness of this condition, recently referred to on social media as “sunburned eyes,” has increased, yet many people still do not recognize its symptoms. Photokeratitis is defined as temporary damage to the corneal surface caused by intense exposure to UV radiation. Spending extended periods outdoors without adequate eye protection, especially during peak sunlight hours, significantly increases the risk.

Photokeratitis Occurs When the Eyes Are Left Unprotected Against the Sun
Photokeratitis is essentially an acute response of the eye to excessive sun exposure. Symptoms can develop within a short period as UV rays affect the cells on the corneal surface. Complaints typically begin several hours after exposure and can significantly reduce daily comfort and quality of life. Although often associated with summer, photokeratitis can also occur during the winter months. Reflected sunlight from snow-covered surfaces can intensify UV exposure, while similar risks are present around the sea and swimming pools. Artificial UV sources, such as tanning beds, are also considered a serious threat to eye health. Specialists emphasize that UV radiation can have lasting effects not only on the skin but also on the eyes.

Symptoms May Develop Within Hours
Common symptoms of photokeratitis include stinging, a burning sensation, redness, tearing and increased sensitivity to light. Some individuals may find it difficult to keep their eyes open, while temporary blurred vision or reduced visual clarity may also occur. Symptoms may be more severe in contact lens wearers, people who work outdoors for extended periods and those exposed to high levels of UV radiation. Specialists stress that this type of eye sensitivity should not be dismissed as simple irritation. In some cases, swelling of the eyelids, headaches and a pronounced feeling of discomfort may also accompany the condition.

Not All Sunglasses Offer Adequate Protection
Specialists emphasize that choosing the right sunglasses plays a crucial role in protecting eye health. Dark lenses alone do not guarantee protection, and sunglasses should always provide 100% UV protection. Eyewear without proper UV filters may actually allow more harmful rays to reach the eyes by causing the pupils to dilate. Children and individuals with lighter-colored eyes are considered particularly vulnerable to the effects of UV radiation and should take extra precautions. Experts also stress the importance of purchasing certified products from reputable optical retailers.

Simple Precautions Can Help Protect Your Eyes
To reduce the risk of photokeratitis, experts recommend avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure during peak sunlight hours. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat, choosing high-quality sunglasses with UV protection and taking extra precautions in environments with reflective surfaces are all considered important protective measures. Specialists also note that outdoor athletes, sailors, skiers and individuals who spend long hours driving should be especially mindful of their eye health. People who spend extended periods in the sun during summer vacations are encouraged not to neglect proper eye protection.

Do Not Delay if You Experience Burning Eyes or Light Sensitivity
Although photokeratitis often improves on its own within a few days, professional evaluation may be necessary in some cases. If symptoms such as severe pain, significant vision loss, persistent redness or extreme sensitivity to light occur, consultation with an eye care specialist is strongly recommended. With timely precautions and appropriate treatment, the condition can usually be managed more comfortably and effectively. Experts also emphasize the need to increase public awareness of eye health, particularly in relation to rising UV exposure during the summer months. Protecting eye health, they note, is an important part of maintaining overall quality of life.

June 2026

Eye redness that may seem harmless can actually be an early sign of a progressive condition that may eventually lead to vision loss. Experts warn that sun exposure, dust, wind and prolonged screen time can all increase the risk. Persistent eye redness should never be ignored.

Growth of tissue on the eye, medically known as “pterygium,” has become increasingly common among eye diseases in recent years. Although often considered harmless, pterygium may progress silently and lead to serious consequences if left untreated. The condition typically first appears with redness and bloodshot eyes. Ophthalmology Specialist Dr. Tolga Birgül explains, “Pterygium is usually noticed through intense redness in the inner corner of the eyes near the nose. Patients often recognize it themselves while looking in the mirror or after people around them point it out. Over time, this tissue may extend over the cornea and obstruct the visual field. Although it may initially appear to be a simple redness or bloodshot appearance, it can eventually lead to vision loss if it progresses. For this reason, persistent eye redness should always be evaluated by a physician.” Dr. Tolga Birgül states that patients with pterygium often describe their complaints with expressions such as, “It feels like there is a grain of sand in my eye,” or “People keep asking me why my eyes are so red, whether I did not sleep enough or drank alcohol.” However, he emphasizes that these symptoms may often be caused by tissue growth on the eye. Ophthalmology Specialist Dr. Tolga Birgül discussed four major factors that contribute to pterygium and shared important warnings and recommendations regarding its symptoms and treatment.

Sunlight and ultraviolet exposure
One of the most important factors in the development of pterygium is prolonged exposure to sunlight. Research shows that pterygium is seen more frequently in individuals who are exposed to intense sunlight for extended periods.

Environmental irritation
Environmental factors including dust, sand and wind increase the risk, especially among people who work outdoors. Frequent exposure to dust, sand and foreign particles may continuously irritate the ocular surface, causing chronic irritation. Over time, this irritation can lead to thickening of the tissue (conjunctiva) and create the conditions for tissue growth extending toward the cornea.

Chronic dry eye
Prolonged use of computer and phone screens may also lead to dry eye. Ophthalmology Specialist Dr. Tolga Birgül states, “We encounter this condition more frequently, especially in people who spend long hours in front of a computer without taking proper eye breaks and in those who spend extended periods looking at phone screens. Insufficient moisture on the ocular surface may also facilitate the development of pterygium.”

Natural Tendency Toward Dry Eye
In some individuals, the ocular surface may naturally be more sensitive and have difficulty maintaining proper moisture balance. This condition may cause the eye surface to become more easily irritated by external factors. When adequate moisture cannot be maintained, the eye’s protective layer weakens and the conjunctival tissue may gradually thicken and extend toward the cornea. In people experiencing dry eye, this process may be triggered more easily, increasing the risk of developing pterygium.

Pay attention to these symptoms!

• Persistent redness and bloodshot appearance in the eyes
• Burning, stinging and tearing sensations
• A raised tissue growth forming on the inner part of the eye
• Redness that creates an aesthetic concern
• Unexpected development or worsening of astigmatism

How is pterygium treated?
Treatment for pterygium is planned according to the stage and progression of the condition. Not every pterygium requires surgery. If the tissue remains unchanged and stable for a long period, it may simply be monitored. However, surgical treatment becomes necessary in cases where the pterygium is actively growing and advancing toward the cornea. Dr. Tolga Birgül emphasizes that a comprehensive eye examination is essential in order to make this distinction and notes that the most important aspect of treatment is preventing recurrence after surgery. “In pterygium surgery, simply removing the tissue growth is not enough. The real priority is preventing it from recurring after the operation. For this reason, we use specialized surgical techniques. After removing the tissue, and before closing the area with methods such as conjunctival flaps or autografts, we microscopically clean the remaining surface using a special diamond-tip burr system. This technique also removes microscopic residual tissue that may remain behind and significantly reduces the risk of recurrence,” he explains.

May 2026

For those who want to see clearly while also protecting their eye health on sunny days, prescription sunglasses offer a practical and comfortable solution. Especially for individuals with refractive errors, they provide both clear vision and UV protection at the same time in situations where standard sunglasses may not be sufficient.

Prescription sunglasses are specially designed eyewear used by people with vision problems to both improve visual clarity and protect the eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Unlike regular sunglasses, they feature lenses produced according to the wearer’s prescription. This allows users to achieve both sun protection and clear vision simultaneously in outdoor environments. Today, UV400 protection has become the standard in these lenses, providing a high level of protection against both UVA and UVB rays. In addition, polarized lens options offer more comfortable vision by reducing reflections, especially while driving and in open outdoor areas. Photochromic lenses may also be preferred depending on individual needs. These lenses automatically darken or lighten according to light intensity, adapting to different lighting conditions.

How Are Prescription Sunglasses Obtained?
The first step in obtaining prescription sunglasses is a comprehensive eye examination. After receiving a prescription with current vision measurements, the individual visits an optical store. The user then selects a sunglass frame suitable for their facial structure. Prescription sun lenses are specially produced according to the prescription and mounted into the selected frame by an optical professional. At this stage, details such as lens color, thickness and coating type, including anti-reflective or hard coatings, are determined according to the user’s needs. Prescription sunglasses have become an important part of daily life, both for improving visual comfort and for providing protection against UV rays. With the right lens and frame selection, clearer and more comfortable vision can be achieved outdoors.

May 2026

Difficulty moving around in dark environments, frequently bumping into objects or feeling uneasy when the lights are turned off are often interpreted as fear or shyness in children. However, in some cases, these behaviors may be early signs of eye conditions that affect night vision.

Children becoming restless in dark environments or having difficulty moving around in the evening is often considered temporary behavior. However, experts warn that certain behavioral changes may be associated with eye problems affecting night vision. Night vision disorders that emerge during childhood may not always be easily recognized. While some children can see normally during the day, they may struggle to navigate in low-light environments or adapt slowly to changes in lighting conditions. Behaviors such as frequent falls in the evening, hesitation while walking downstairs or reluctance to separate from parents in the dark should be carefully observed by families.

According to experts, reduced night vision may be linked to retinal diseases, certain hereditary eye disorders, vitamin A deficiency or various refractive errors. However, it is also emphasized that not every symptom necessarily indicates a serious condition and that a definitive evaluation can only be made through a comprehensive eye examination. Specialists note that children are often unable to clearly express their vision problems. Behaviors such as sitting too close to the television, becoming restless in dim environments or looking at visual materials from a very close distance may also be important warning signs. Since many children tend to accept their vision difficulties as normal and may not complain about them, parents are advised to pay close attention to behavioral changes.

Experts also emphasize that eye examinations in children should not only be performed after vision problems develop, but should instead be carried out regularly at certain age intervals. Early examinations are considered highly important for assessing potential risks and protecting children’s visual health. In addition, early diagnosis may help control possible vision problems before they progress and contribute to maintaining children’s quality of daily life.

May 2026

In an age where digital screens are at the center of our lives, our eyes are under more strain than ever. However, it is possible to ease this burden and support eye health with the right foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

Digital screens have become an inseparable part of modern life. Long hours spent in front of computers, smartphones, and tablets place an increasing strain on the eyes each day. Complaints such as dryness, fatigue, stinging sensations, and blurred vision have become commonplace for many people. This picture shows that eye health is influenced not only by external factors but also by lifestyle and dietary habits. In particular, biological processes such as oxidative stress and inflammation can affect ocular tissues over time. Although it may be difficult to completely change the pace of digital life, it is possible to reduce these effects. A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and plant-based compounds plays an important role in supporting eye health. This support can be achieved through natural foods that are easily accessible in daily life. Certain fruits, in particular, stand out for their ability to support visual function and help reduce eye fatigue thanks to their powerful nutritional content.

Blueberries: Antioxidant Power
Despite their small size, blueberries have a strong nutritional profile and are especially rich in anthocyanins. These compounds play a role in combating oxidative stress, which accelerates the aging process in the eyes. Research suggests that anthocyanins may help protect retinal cells and reduce cellular damage. When consumed regularly, blueberries may contribute to reducing eye fatigue and supporting long-term eye health. They can be easily added to the daily diet, for example in breakfast bowls, yogurt, or smoothies.

Oranges: Lens Protection with Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays a critical role in maintaining the structure of the eye’s lens. Oxidative damage that accumulates over time is one of the contributing factors in the development of cataracts. Studies indicate that adequate intake of vitamin C may help reduce the risk of cataracts. For this reason, citrus fruits such as oranges are a simple yet effective choice for supporting eye health. Consuming one serving of citrus fruit per day can provide a meaningful benefit in this regard.

Papaya: Support for Dryness and Sensitivity
Papaya is a noteworthy option for those experiencing dryness and sensitivity in the eyes. The provitamin A compounds and carotenoids it contains help protect the ocular surface. At the same time, papaya contains anti-inflammatory components that may help reduce low-level inflammation in the eyes. This can contribute to relieving discomfort, especially after prolonged screen use. It can be consumed fresh or easily added to fruit salads and smoothies.

Kiwi: Protective Effect for the Retina
In addition to its high vitamin C content, kiwi contains carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds are particularly important for retinal and macular health. Nutritional studies suggest that regular intake of such components may help maintain visual quality. In this respect, kiwi is a practical option that can be included in the daily diet. It can be preferred as a snack or a light dessert. Eye health is often associated only with genetic factors or aging. However, processes such as oxidative stress, vascular health, and inflammation are directly linked to nutrition. A diet rich in antioxidants may help reduce cellular damage, protect ocular tissues, and slow the effects of age-related changes. It should be remembered that nutrition alone is not sufficient. Daily lifestyle and habits also play a key role in protecting eye health.

April 2026

Proper lighting, an ideal reading distance, and regular breaks are essential to reduce eye strain while reading. With a few simple habits, you can protect both your comfort and your eye health.

Prolonged reading, when combined with poor lighting and incorrect posture, can lead to eye fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches. This can reduce reading enjoyment and cause a general feeling of fatigue by the end of the day. Eye health experts emphasize that proper lighting while reading is critical for both comfort and eye health. The light source should be positioned on the left side and slightly above, and it should be neither too bright nor too dim. Soft light that reflects onto the page, rather than shining directly into the eyes, helps prevent unnecessary strain on the eye muscles. This not only extends focus time but also enhances overall reading comfort. Especially in the evening, care should be taken to ensure that desk lamps illuminate the entire page evenly.

The distance between the book and the eyes should be at least 40 centimeters. This distance ensures clear vision while preventing eye strain. Reading while lying down not only strains the neck and shoulder muscles but also makes it more difficult for the eyes to focus. For this reason, the healthiest reading position is an upright posture with proper back support. Taking short breaks every 30 minutes and looking at a distant point helps relax the eye muscles. Taking deep breaths during these breaks also contributes to overall physical relaxation. In addition, drinking enough water helps maintain the eyes’ moisture balance and reduces dryness. Frequent blinking supports the natural lubrication of the ocular surface.

By supporting your reading habits with these small yet effective measures, you can protect your eye health in the long term while also improving your comfort as you move from page to page.

5 Golden Rules for Eye Comfort While Reading

• Position the light source on the left side and slightly above.
• Keep at least 40 cm between your eyes and the book.
• Focus on a distant point every 30 minutes.
• Drink plenty of water to keep your eyes hydrated.
• Do not neglect your natural blinking reflex.

April 2026

Nearly 70 million people worldwide are affected by glaucoma, and about half remain unaware of the disease. Typically emerging after the age of 40 and progressing silently without noticeable symptoms, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness. Unfortunately, around 10 percent of patients are already at an advanced stage by the time treatment begins, resulting in permanent vision loss.

Prof. Dr. Kıvanç Güngör, President of the Turkish Ophthalmological Association, has warned the public about glaucoma, a disease that progresses silently in the eye. Stating that approximately 2.5 million people in Türkiye are estimated to be affected by the condition, Güngör said, “Half of these patients are unaware that they have glaucoma. Although millions of people in our country are affected, only around 300,000 patients receive regular treatment. According to the World Health Organization, more than 70 million people worldwide are affected by glaucoma, and approximately 6.5 to 7 million cases result in blindness. The number of glaucoma patients globally is expected to exceed 110 million by 2040. Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness in the world after cataracts. The disease can occur at any age, starting from birth, but it is most commonly seen after the age of 40. Since the damage to the optic nerve is irreversible, vision loss caused by glaucoma cannot be restored, and the disease may result in permanent vision impairment and blindness.”

Delayed Treatment May Lead to Blindness
Prof. Dr. Kıvanç Güngör emphasized, “Regular eye examinations and periodic measurement of intraocular pressure are essential for early diagnosis and for preserving vision. If diagnosed early, the progression can be halted. Since glaucoma is a chronic condition, lifelong monitoring of patients is crucial. The primary goal of treatment is to preserve visual function. Our first line of treatment is usually medication. If we detect damage during periodic examinations of the optic nerve using diagnostic devices, we need to lower intraocular pressure with various eye drops and stop the progressive loss in the visual field. If medication does not provide sufficient results, laser treatments and surgical options may be required. Laser and surgical procedures are applied using different techniques depending on the stage of the disease. If treatment is delayed or insufficient, glaucoma can result in blindness.”

April 2026

The eyes reveal not only what we see but also how the mind works. Subtle changes in visual perception may carry early signals of memory loss.

Memory loss is often a silent and difficult process to recognize. Minor forgetfulness experienced in daily life is usually not taken seriously. However, some changes in mental processes may begin to appear in different ways much earlier than expected. Recent findings suggest that one of these early warning signs may be hidden in eye movements. Changes in eye movement patterns may serve as early indicators of impairments in memory and cognitive function. When the responses of individuals from different age groups to visual stimuli are examined, clear differences emerge between people with lower cognitive performance and healthy individuals. These comparisons reveal the strong connection between mental processes and visual behavior.

According to the findings, individuals with lower memory performance focus on more limited areas while examining images and display more uniform gaze patterns. Even when viewing different images, they tend to direct their attention toward similar points. This suggests that visual exploration behavior is reduced and that the brain’s capacity to process new information may be weakened. In contrast, eye movements in healthy individuals are more dynamic and exploration oriented. Shifts in gaze toward different areas of an image indicate that the mind is actively collecting and evaluating information. This difference is closely related to cognitive flexibility and attention processes.

These changes are believed to be associated with the hippocampus, which is the memory center of the brain. The way the visual world is perceived is considered a reflection of underlying mental processes. These findings open a promising path for the early detection of dementia and similar conditions. Eye movement tracking may become an important complementary tool in the future because it is a low cost and accessible method.

March 2026

The habit of eye rubbing, which is frequently observed in children, is often considered a simple reflex but it may be an early sign of certain serious eye diseases.

Children rubbing their eyes is often interpreted by parents as fatigue, lack of sleep, or temporary itching. However, this seemingly harmless behavior may sometimes indicate an underlying and important eye problem. Especially when eye rubbing becomes frequent and repetitive, it should be regarded not only as a behavior but also as a warning sign that requires careful attention. Eye health plays a critical role in both the physical and cognitive development of children. For this reason, ignoring symptoms that appear minor may lead to more serious problems in the future.

Silent Risk That Can Begin Early: Keratoconus
One of the conditions that specialists particularly emphasize is keratoconus. In this disease, the cornea, which is the transparent front layer of the eye responsible for focusing light, becomes thinner and gradually protrudes forward. This structural change disrupts visual clarity and may lead to significant vision loss over time. Although keratoconus is most commonly detected during adolescence, it is known that the disease may begin during childhood. Because noticeable symptoms often do not appear in the early stages, diagnosis is frequently delayed. This delay may allow the disease to progress further.

Among the most important early warning signs are;

• frequent eye rubbing
• rapid changes in eyeglass prescription
• seeing lights as scattered or shadowed
• inability to see clearly despite wearing glasses
• light sensitivity and glare

These symptoms should not be underestimated and must be evaluated by an eye care specialist.

Eye Rubbing Is Not Only a Symptom but Also a Risk Factor
Eye rubbing is not only a symptom but also an important factor that may accelerate disease progression. Frequent and forceful eye rubbing can apply mechanical pressure to the cornea and increase thinning. In children with allergic eye diseases, itching is usually more intense and eye rubbing is more common. This situation may trigger the development of keratoconus or cause an existing condition to progress more rapidly. For this reason, parents should help children avoid rubbing their eyes and the underlying causes of itching should always be investigated.

Do Not Overlook Genetic Risk
Genetic factors are known to play an important role in the development of keratoconus. The risk increases significantly in children who have a family history of the disease. For this reason, children with a positive family history should undergo regular and detailed eye examinations. Children are often unable to clearly express visual problems. For them, the way they see the world appears normal. This makes parental observation even more important.

Vision Problems Can Affect Academic Performance
Vision is one of the fundamental components of the learning process. A large portion of the information children receive is acquired through visual input. For this reason, reduced visual quality does not remain only a physical issue but also directly affects academic performance. Children who cannot clearly see the board, who have difficulty recognizing written text, or who become tired quickly while reading may develop problems such as difficulty maintaining attention, reduced interest in classroom activities, reading difficulties and loss of self confidence. Over time, these challenges may lead to a noticeable decline in school performance.

Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For
Certain behaviors may provide important clues that a child is experiencing vision problems. The following signs should be carefully monitored

• watching television from a very close distance
• holding books or screens very close to the eyes
• squinting to see the board clearly
• frequent eye rubbing
• sensitivity to light
• frequent headaches
• rapid changes in eyeglass prescription

If one or more of these signs are observed, an eye specialist should be consulted without delay.

Early Diagnosis Can Prevent Vision Loss
Although keratoconus is a progressive disease, it can be controlled when diagnosed early. Thanks to modern treatment methods available today, disease progression can be slowed and in some cases stopped. At this point, the most important step is regular eye examinations. Specialists recommend that children undergo eye evaluations at regular intervals even when no symptoms are present.

March 2026