Dr. Chioma Onuka, an optometrist, has urged Nigerians to adopt simple habits to protect their eyes, particularly as extended screen time continues to strain vision.
Speaking to Nigeria Info FM, Monday, Dr. Onuka said, “Many people ignore eye health until it becomes very serious. It’s part of the culture to overlook it, but even small habits can make a big difference.”
She advised regular eye check-ups, noting, “If you have no ocular disease, you should check your eyes every six months. If you have a condition, it could be every three months, or even every month if you use specific eye drops.”
Onuka also stressed the importance of taking screen breaks and proper ergonomics. “If you spend five hours on a computer, try to look around, blink more often, and follow the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away,” she said.
She added that keeping the screen at eye level prevents unnecessary strain: “If your monitor is too low, you bend your neck and put stress on your eyes and back.”
She highlighted simple lifestyle adjustments: “Stand up, stretch your back, stretch your eyes. Use blue-light-blocking glasses — it helps your eyes maintain moisture and reduces stress.” Onuka also recommended brief relaxation exercises: “Roll your eyes, close them for a few seconds, and allow them to rest. These are small things, but they protect your vision and support your overall health.”
Dr. Onuka concluded, “Taking care of your eyes is easy and safe. It doesn’t cost anything, and it prevents long-term problems. Everyone should make it a daily habit.”
