Back to: Jss1 Home Economics (PVS)

Introduction

Grooming is an essential part of personal hygiene and it involves taking care of various parts of the body to maintain cleanliness, health, and appearance. There are several parts of the human body that require grooming, including:

1. Hair: Hair grooming involves washing, conditioning, and styling to keep it clean and healthy. Hair can be groomed on the head, face, and body.
2. Skin: Skin grooming involves keeping the skin clean, moisturized, and free of blemishes. It also includes shaving, waxing, and exfoliating to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs.
3. Nails: Nail grooming involves trimming and shaping the nails, as well as keeping them clean and free of dirt and bacteria.
4. Teeth: Teeth grooming involves brushing and flossing to keep them clean and healthy. It also includes regular dental checkups and cleanings to prevent cavities and gum disease.
5. Ears: Ear grooming involves cleaning the outer ear and removing excess earwax to prevent infection and improve hearing.
6. Nose: Nose grooming involves keeping the nostrils clean and free of excess hair to prevent infection and improve breathing.

Proper grooming of these body parts not only helps to maintain personal hygiene but also contributes to one’s overall physical appearance and confidence.

The Human Hair

To take good care of yourself, it’s important to practice personal hygiene and good grooming. This means keeping your body clean and taking care of your appearance. When you look good, it tells others that you take care of yourself and you value your health and appearance.

Personal hygiene and good grooming involve cleaning every part of your body, including your hair, eyes, ears, teeth, skin, and legs. Hair is a slender outgrowth of the skin made of keratin. The colour and shape of your hair can be determined by your race and ethnicity. Your hair is an important part of your appearance and can be improved with proper care and attention to factors like diet and heredity.

Each hair grows from a hair follicle, which has a tiny oil gland near its base. This gland produces oil that helps to lubricate the hair and keep the skin around it soft. By taking good care of your hair, you can improve your overall appearance and show others that you value personal hygiene and good grooming.

HAIR GROWTH

Hair grows out of tiny pockets in the skin called follicles. The root of the hair is located within the follicle and is surrounded by a living structure called the bulb. This bulb provides nourishment to the hair and is visible as a small white lump at the end of a plucked hair. The hair is made up of lengthening fibres of dead cells filled with a protein called keratin, which makes up the cortex. The medulla, which is semi-hollow, is also found in the cortex. Hair grows faster when it is shorter.

FUNCTIONS OF THE HAIR

1. Protection: Hair protects the scalp from harmful UV radiation and physical injury.
2. Sensation: Hair is connected to nerve endings that provide tactile feedback to the brain, allowing us to sense touch, pressure, and temperature changes on the scalp.
3. Insulation: Hair helps to regulate body temperature by trapping heat close to the scalp in colder environments.
4. Social communication: Hair can convey information about a person’s identity, culture, and social status, and can also be used for self-expression through hairstyles and hair dye.
5. Water regulation: Hair helps to absorb and retain moisture in the scalp, preventing dehydration.
6. Lubrication: Hair produces natural oils that moisturize the scalp and hair shaft, reducing friction and breakage.
7. Excretion: Hair can secrete waste products and toxins from the body, similar to sweat glands.
8. Sense of smell: Hair can trap and retain scents, which can trigger memories and emotional responses.
9. Camouflage: Hair can blend in with the environment, providing animals with camouflage to avoid predators or prey.
10. Sexual attraction: Hair can play a role in sexual attraction by indicating health and fertility, and can also be used as a physical stimulus during intimate moments.

Types of Hair

NATURAL HAIR

1. Dry Hair: This type of hair is dry, dull, and unattractive. It can be caused by several factors, including insufficient production of oil from the oil glands, poor nutrition, illness, or improper hair care.
2. Oily Hair: This type of hair occurs when the oil glands are overactive and produce more oil than is needed. This can make the hair look greasy and dirty, and it may require frequent washing.
3. Soft Hair: This type of hair is light and can easily be blown about by the wind. It is generally easy to manage and style.
4. Tough/Coarse Hair: This hair type is thick and can easily break a comb. It is difficult to comb and manage and may require special care such as deep conditioning treatments.
5. Short Hair: Short hair is a hairstyle preference for some people. It can be achieved by cutting the hair to a shorter length.
6. Long Hair: Some people have naturally long hair, while others may achieve it through good nutrition and proper hair care. Long hair can be managed by braiding or tying it back to keep it tidy.
7. Curly Hair: Curly hair has a distinct texture that is characterized by curls or waves. It can range from loose waves to tight ringlets and can be either thick or fine.
8. Wavy Hair: Wavy hair is a type of hair that has a slight wave or curl to it. It is less curly than curly hair but more curly than straight hair.
9. Straight Hair: Straight hair is a hair type that is naturally straight and lacks any curls or waves. It is generally shiny and easy to manage.
10. Frizzy Hair: Frizzy hair is a type of hair that is characterized by dryness, fuzziness, and lack of definition. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including humidity, over-styling, and lack of moisture.

Artificial Hair

Artificial hair is a type of hair that is made from synthetic materials or natural fibers that mimic human hair. Here are some common types of artificial hair:

1. Kanekalon Hair: This type of hair is made from a synthetic fiber called Kanekalon, which is commonly used in braiding and weaving hairstyles. It has a soft and silky texture, and it’s durable and heat-resistant.
2. Toyokalon Hair: Similar to Kanekalon hair, Toyokalon hair is also made from synthetic fibers but it’s much softer and lighter. It’s often used for creating curly or wavy hairstyles and is also heat-resistant.
3. Synthetic Hair: This type of hair is made from various synthetic materials like acrylic, nylon, and polyester. It’s affordable and comes in a wide variety of colours and textures, making it a popular choice for costume wigs or temporary hairstyles.
4. Human Hair Blend: This is a combination of human hair and synthetic fibers. It offers the benefits of both types of hair – the natural look and feel of human hair, along with the affordability of synthetic hair.
5. Heat-Resistant Hair: This type of hair can withstand high temperatures and can be curled, straightened, or styled using heat tools like flat irons and curling wands. It’s often made from Kanekalon or Toyokalon fibers.
6. Yaki Hair: This type of hair has a texture that resembles relaxed or chemically-treated African American hair. It’s often used for creating braids, weaves, and extensions.
7. Marley Hair: This is a type of hair that is used for creating dreadlocks or braids. It’s made from synthetic fibres and has a rough, kinky texture that mimics natural hair.
8. Futura Hair: This is heat-resistant synthetic hair made from a blend of fibres. It can withstand heat up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and can be styled with hot tools. It’s commonly used for creating wigs and weaves.
9. Remy Hair: This type of hair is made from human hair, but the strands are kept in their natural direction from root to tip. This gives the hair a more natural look and prevents tangling. Remy’s hair is often used for creating high-quality wigs and extensions.
10. Crochet Hair: This type of hair is looped through natural hair using a crochet hook. It’s commonly made from synthetic fibres and is used for creating protective hairstyles like braids, twists, and locs. It’s easy to install and can be styled in various ways.

Care of The Hair

1. Regular washing: Regular washing of hair is necessary to keep it clean and healthy. However, excessive washing can strip the scalp of natural oils, so it is recommended to wash hair every 2-3 days with a gentle shampoo.
2. Conditioning: Conditioning is necessary to keep the hair soft and hydrated. Apply a good quality conditioner after shampooing, focusing on the ends, and rinse it thoroughly with water.
3. Avoid using hot water: Hot water can strip the hair of its natural oils, so it is recommended to use lukewarm or cool water for washing and rinsing hair.
4. Use a wide-toothed comb: A wide-toothed comb is gentle on the hair and prevents breakage. It is recommended to start combing from the ends and work your way up to avoid pulling and tugging.
5. Avoid using heat tools: Frequent use of heat tools such as flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can damage hair. If you must use heat tools, use a heat protectant spray and limit use to once a week.
6. Trim hair regularly: Trimming the hair regularly helps to prevent split ends and promotes healthy growth.
7. Protect hair from the sun: The sun’s UV rays can damage hair, so it is recommended to wear a hat or use a UV protection spray when spending time outdoors.
8. Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach and hair dyes that can damage the hair. If you must use them, do so sparingly and always follow the instructions.
9. Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps to promote healthy hair growth. Eat a balanced diet that includes foods such as eggs, nuts, and leafy greens.
10. Practice stress management: Stress can affect the health of your hair, so it is important to practice stress management techniques such as meditation, exercise, and getting enough sleep.

Reasons for Oil/Greasing Hair

1. Softening: Oiling or greasing hair can make it feel softer and smoother.
2. Scalp Lubrication: Applying oil or grease to the scalp can soothe irritation and dryness.
3. Adding Shine: Oiling hair can give it a healthy-looking shine.
4. Hair Growth: Oiling the hair can help promote growth by nourishing the scalp and hair follicles.
5. Treating Infections: Oiling can also serve as a natural remedy for certain hair infections.

Hair Infection

Dandruff

Dandruff is a common scalp condition that results in the appearance of small, white flakes on the scalp and in the hair.

Causes of Dandruff

i. Shedding of Dead Cells: Dandruff is often caused by the natural shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp, which can accumulate and form flakes.

ii. Scalp Infection: Neglecting scalp hygiene can lead to the buildup of bacteria and fungus on the scalp, which can cause dandruff and scalp itching.

Treatment

1. Use a brush or comb to remove the scales on your scalp as much as possible.
2. Wash your hair with anti-dandruff or antiseptic soap at least three times a week.
3. Avoid using hot water to wash your hair as it can strip the scalp of natural oils and make dandruff worse. Use lukewarm water instead.
4. Use a conditioner after washing your hair to keep it moisturized and reduce itching and flaking.
5. If you have severe dandruff, consider using a medicated shampoo that contains ingredients like coal tar, salicylic acid, or ketoconazole. These ingredients can help to control dandruff and soothe the scalp. However, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and not use them more often than recommended.

Prevention

Washing your hair regularly is an important step in maintaining healthy hair and preventing the buildup of dirt, oil, and other debris. It is recommended that you wash your hair at least twice a week with a gentle shampoo to remove excess oil and dirt from your scalp and hair.

In addition to washing your hair, using a good hair oil can also be beneficial. Hair oil can help to nourish and moisturize your hair, improving its overall health and appearance. Some of the benefits of using hair oil include:

1. Improved hair growth: Hair oil can help to improve blood circulation in the scalp, which can promote hair growth.
2. Reduced hair damage: Hair oil can help to protect your hair from damage caused by heat styling tools, environmental factors, and chemical treatments.
3. Increased hair strength: Hair oil can help to strengthen your hair, reducing the risk of breakage and split ends.
4. Improved hair texture: Hair oil can help to improve the texture of your hair, making it smoother, softer, and more manageable.

Hair Lice

Regarding hair lice, these are small insects that infest the hair and scalp. They are spread through direct contact with an infected person or through the sharing of combs, brushes, hats, and other personal items. Lice feed on blood from the scalp, causing itching and irritation.

To prevent and treat hair lice, it is important to:

1. Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share combs, brushes, hats, or other personal items that may come into contact with someone else’s hair.
2. Regularly inspect hair and scalp: Check your hair and scalp regularly for signs of lice, including small white or greyish-brown insects, eggs (nits), and tiny red bumps.
3. Use lice treatment products: Use over-the-counter or prescription lice treatment products as directed to kill lice and their eggs.
4. Wash bedding and clothing: Wash bedding and clothing in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill lice and their eggs.
5. Vacuum the home: Vacuum carpets, furniture, and other surfaces to remove any lice or eggs that may have fallen off of an infected person.

CAUSES

i. They strive in very dirty hair: Head lice are tiny parasitic insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood. They prefer to live in clean hair, but they can also survive and thrive in dirty hair. Dirt, oil, and hair products can make it easier for lice to move around and attach themselves to hair strands. Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hair regularly, can also make it easier for lice to infest the hair.

ii. They are easily spread from one person to another through contact: Head lice are highly contagious and can be easily transmitted from one person to another through direct head-to-head contact or by sharing personal items, such as combs, brushes, hats, and headphones. Children and teenagers are particularly susceptible to getting head lice because they often have close physical contact with others in schools, camps, and sports activities.

iii. Sharing of Personal Items: Sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, and hair accessories can also cause head lice infestations. This is because lice can easily transfer from one person to another through shared items that come into contact with the hair.

iv. Crowded Living Conditions: Crowded living conditions, such as in boarding schools, dormitories, and refugee camps, can also lead to head lice infestations. In such situations, it is easier for lice to spread from one person to another due to the close proximity of individuals.

v. Resistance to Treatment: Resistance to treatment is another cause of head lice infestations. Some head lice have developed resistance to common over-the-counter treatments, such as pyrethrin and permethrin. This can make it difficult to get rid of head lice, even with proper treatment. In such cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger prescription treatments or recommend alternative treatment methods.

TREATMENT

i. Shaving off the hair completely for hair lice: This method is used to treat hair lice infestations. Hair lice are tiny, wingless insects that live in human hair and feed on blood from the scalp. Shaving off the hair completely is an effective way to get rid of hair lice, as it removes both the lice and their eggs (nits) from the hair. The shavings should be carefully collected and destroyed by burning to prevent re-infestation.

ii. Where complete shaving is not possible, cut the hair very low and comb vigorously with a fine comb: This method is also used to treat hair lice infestations when complete shaving is not possible. Cutting the hair very low makes it easier to comb through and remove the lice and nits. A fine-toothed comb should be used to comb the hair thoroughly, from the roots to the tips, to loosen and remove the eggs. This process may need to be repeated several times to completely get rid of the lice.

iii. Using anti-louse ointment: Anti-louse ointment is a medicated cream or lotion that contains chemicals that kill lice and nits. This method is used to treat head lice infestations. The ointment is applied to the hair and scalp according to the instructions on the label and left on for a specified amount of time. After the treatment time has elapsed, the hair should be washed thoroughly to remove the ointment and dead lice and nits. Repeat applications may be necessary to completely eliminate the lice

Ring Worm

This condition is caused by a fungus that grows between the layers of skin. It appears as a circular patch on the skin with a ring of small round spots surrounding a clear area in the center. The affected area may also be bald without hair.

Treatment

Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, is a fungal infection of the skin that can affect various parts of the body, including the scalp, nails, and feet. Here are ten common treatments for ringworm:

1. Antifungal creams: Over-the-counter topical antifungal creams containing ingredients such as clotrimazole, terbinafine, or miconazole are often effective in treating ringworm.
2. Oral antifungal medications: For more severe cases, doctors may prescribe oral antifungal medications such as griseofulvin, itraconazole, or fluconazole.
3. Shampoos: Antifungal shampoos containing ingredients such as ketoconazole or selenium sulfide can treat scalp ringworm.
4. Keep the affected area clean and dry: Keeping the affected area clean and dry can help prevent the fungus from spreading and may aid in its treatment.
5. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antifungal properties and can be applied topically to the affected area.
6. Garlic: Garlic contains antifungal properties that can help fight the infection. Crush a few cloves of garlic and apply it directly to the affected area.
7. Aloe vera: Aloe vera has antibacterial and antifungal properties that may be helpful in treating ringworm. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected area.
8. Turmeric: Turmeric has antifungal properties that can help treat ringworm. Mix turmeric powder with water to make a paste and apply it to the affected area.
9. Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties and can be applied topically to the affected area or added to a warm bath.
10. Oatmeal baths: Soaking in an oatmeal bath can help relieve the itching and irritation associated with ringworm. Add colloidal oatmeal to a warm bath and soak for 20-30 minutes

Prevention

Ringworm is a common fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails. It is highly contagious and can be easily spread from person to person or through contact with infected animals or objects. To prevent ringworm, it’s important to take the following precautions:

1. Maintain good hygiene: Good hygiene practices can help prevent ringworm. This includes regular hand washing, bathing or showering daily and washing clothes and bedding frequently.
2. Avoid sharing personal items: Avoid sharing personal items like combs, brushes, hats, towels, and clothing, which can spread the infection.
3. Wear protective clothing: If you are in contact with infected animals, wear protective clothing such as gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and pants.
4. Keep your skin dry: Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so it’s important to keep your skin dry. Dry your skin thoroughly after bathing or swimming, and avoid wearing wet clothes or shoes.
5. Avoid direct contact with infected people or animals: Try to avoid direct contact with infected people or animals until their infection has cleared up.
6. Disinfect surfaces: Ringworms can survive on surfaces such as floors, countertops, and gym equipment. Disinfect these surfaces regularly with a solution of bleach and water.
7. Avoid walking barefoot: Walking barefoot in public places, such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and shower areas, can increase the risk of ringworm. Wear sandals or flip-flops to protect your feet.
8. Keep your immune system healthy: A healthy immune system can help prevent ringworm. Get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly.
9. Treat pets: If you have pets, make sure they are treated for ringworm if they show any signs of infection.
10. Seek medical attention: If you think you have ringworm, seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading to others.

The Human Eyes

The eyes are the organs responsible for vision in the human body. They are located in the sockets of the skull and work together with the brain to interpret visual information.

The eyes are composed of several different parts, including the cornea, iris, lens, retina, and optic nerve.

Parts and Functions of the Eyes 

Part of the Eye	Description	Location	Function
Cornea	The transparent outer layer of the eye	The front part of the eye	Bends and focuses light rays entering the eye, and helps protect the eye from dust and other foreign matter
Iris	Coloured ring of tissue	Between the cornea and the lens	Regulates the amount of light entering the eye by adjusting the size of the pupil
Pupil	The circular opening in the centre of the iris	Centre of the iris	Controls the amount of light entering the eye by changing size according to the brightness of the environment
Lens	Transparent, flexible structure	Behind the iris	Refracts light to focus it on the retina, and helps adjust the focus of the eye for near or distant objects
Retina	A layer of light-sensitive cells	The innermost layer of the eye, lining the back of the eyeball	Converts light into neural signals that are sent to the brain for visual processing
Fovea	The small, central area of the retina	Centre of the macula	Provides the sharpest vision, with the highest concentration of photoreceptor cells
Optic Nerve	Bundle of nerve fibres	Connects the eye to the brain, at the back of the eyeball	Carries visual information from the retina to the brain for processing and interpretation
Sclera	The tough, white outer layer of the eye	Covers most of the eyeball, except for the front part of the eye	Provides structural support and protection for the eye, and helps maintain the shape of the eye
Conjunctiva	A thin, clear membrane	Covers the front surface of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids	Helps protect the eye from infection, and lubricates the eye to keep it moist and comfortable
Choroid	A thin layer of blood vessels and pigment	Between the sclera and the retina	Supplies oxygen and nutrients to the retina, and helps absorb excess light that enters the eye

These are the main parts of the eye and their functions:

CARE OF THE EYES

Taking care of your eyes is essential for maintaining good vision and overall eye health. Here are ten ways to take care of your eyes:

1. Eat a balanced and healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for maintaining good eye health. Foods like leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and fatty fish contain essential nutrients that are beneficial for the eyes.
2. Protect your eyes from UV rays: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause damage to the eyes. It’s important to wear sunglasses that block at least 99% of UV rays when you are outside.
3. Take breaks during screen time: Prolonged screen time can cause eye strain, headaches, and dry eyes. Take breaks every 20 minutes and look away from the screen for at least 20 seconds.
4. Practice good hygiene: Washing your hands regularly and not touching your eyes with dirty hands can help prevent infections and other eye-related problems.
5. Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can cause eye fatigue, dryness, and other problems. Getting enough sleep can help keep your eyes healthy and rested.
6. Quit smoking: Smoking is linked to several eye problems, including macular degeneration and cataracts. Quitting smoking can help reduce your risk of developing these conditions.
7. Exercise regularly: Exercise is beneficial for your overall health, including your eyes. Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of eye-related problems like glaucoma and macular degeneration.
8. Use eye protection: If you work in an environment with hazardous materials or participate in activities like sports, it’s important to wear eye protection to prevent eye injuries.
9. Keep your eyes moisturized: Dry eyes can cause discomfort and vision problems. Using eye drops or artificial tears can help keep your eyes moist.
10. Visit an eye doctor regularly: Regular eye exams can help detect eye problems early on and prevent them from getting worse. It’s recommended to get an eye exam every one to two years, depending on your age and overall eye health.
11. Use good light when reading or doing any fine work such as sewing. Poor light strains the eyes. This means that when reading or doing any fine work that requires concentration, it’s important to have sufficient light to avoid eye strain. Poor lighting can cause eye fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision. Using a well-lit room, a desk lamp, or a lighted magnifying glass can help to prevent eye strain and improve your overall visual comfort.
12. Do not rub the eye when you have something in it. Rubbing your eyes can cause irritation and even damage to your eyes, especially if you have something in them. It’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes and instead, rinse them with clean water or use eye drops to flush out any foreign particles that may be causing discomfort.
13. Do not wash your eyes with disinfectant unless on the doctor’s advice. Using disinfectants on your eyes can be harmful and cause irritation or damage to your eyes. Unless your doctor advises you to do so, it’s important to avoid using disinfectants on your eyes and instead, seek professional advice if you experience any eye-related problems.
14. Do not borrow another person’s face towel for wiping your eyes. Sharing personal hygiene items, such as face towels, can lead to the transmission of bacteria and infections. It’s important to avoid borrowing someone else’s face towel for wiping your eyes and instead, use a clean, personal towel for this purpose.
15. Do not watch television in a completely dark room. Watching TV in a completely dark room can cause eye strain and discomfort. It’s important to have some ambient light in the room, such as a lamp or dimmed overhead light, to reduce the contrast between the TV screen and the surrounding darkness.
16. Do not sit too close to the television screen. Sitting too close to the TV screen can cause eye strain and even damage to your eyes. It’s recommended to sit at least 6 feet away from the screen to reduce eye strain and improve visual comfort.
17. Eat food rich in vitamin A such as carrots, green vegetables and red palm oil. Eating foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots, green leafy vegetables, and red palm oil, can help to maintain good eye health. Vitamin A is essential for the production of a pigment called rhodopsin, which is responsible for vision in low-light conditions.
18. If you have to wear glasses, do so according to the optician’s instructions and keep them clean always. Wearing glasses according to the optician’s instructions and keeping them clean is important to maintain good eye health. Wearing glasses that are too strong or too weak can cause eye strain and discomfort. It’s also important to keep your glasses clean to avoid eye infections and to ensure optimal visual clarity.

Lack of Proper Care for The Eyes Can Lead To

1. Vision Problems: Lack of proper care for the eyes can lead to various vision problems such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. These conditions can make it difficult to see clearly, leading to blurred vision, headaches, and eye strain.
2. Dry Eyes: Failure to take proper care of your eyes can lead to dry eyes, which can be uncomfortable and can cause redness and irritation. Dry eyes can also lead to an increased risk of eye infections and other eye-related problems.
3. Eye Infections: Failure to maintain proper hygiene and care of your eyes can lead to eye infections. These infections can range from mild conjunctivitis to severe infections that can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
4. Cataracts: Cataracts are a common eye condition that is associated with ageing. However, a lack of proper care for your eyes can increase your risk of developing cataracts earlier in life.
5. Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve if left untreated. Lack of proper eye care can increase your risk of developing glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss.
6. Corneal Ulcers: Corneal ulcers are painful and potentially serious eye infections that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Failure to maintain proper hygiene and care of your eyes can increase your risk of developing corneal ulcers.
7. Eye Strain: Eye strain is a common problem that is associated with spending long periods of time in front of a computer screen or other digital devices. Lack of proper eye care can make eye strain worse and can cause other vision problems.
8. Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a common eye infection that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergies. Failure to maintain proper hygiene and care of your eyes can increase your risk of developing conjunctivitis.
9. Photophobia: Photophobia is a condition where the eyes are more sensitive to light than normal. This can be a symptom of an underlying eye condition or can be caused by a lack of proper eye care.
10. Night Blindness: Night blindness is a condition where a person has difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. This can be caused by a lack of proper nutrition or other underlying eye conditions that can result from failure to take care of your eyes properly.

Common Eye Defects

1. Myopia: Also known as nearsightedness, this is a condition where distant objects appear blurry. It occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved.
2. Hyperopia: Also known as farsightedness, this is a condition where close objects appear blurry. It occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea is too flat.
3. Astigmatism: This is a condition where the cornea is irregularly shaped, causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
4. Presbyopia: This is an age-related condition where the lens of the eye loses its ability to focus on close objects, causing difficulty with reading and other close work.
5. Amblyopia: Also known as lazy eye, this is a condition where one eye does not develop normal vision during childhood due to a variety of factors, including crossed eyes, refractive errors, or eye diseases.
6. Strabismus: This is a condition where the eyes do not align properly, causing double vision or the brain to suppress one eye’s image to avoid confusion.
7. Cataracts: This is a condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurry vision, halos around lights, and reduced colour vision.
8. Glaucoma: This is a group of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss or blindness. Symptoms may not appear until the condition is advanced.
9. Diabetic retinopathy: This is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak or become blocked, leading to vision loss or blindness.
10. Macular degeneration: This is a condition where the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision, deteriorates, causing vision loss in the centre of the visual field. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet.

Removal of Foreign Objects from The Eyes

If you have a foreign object in your eye, it can be a very uncomfortable and potentially dangerous situation. Here are the steps you can take to remove a foreign object from your eye:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent bacteria into the eye.
2. Try blinking your eye to see if the object will come out on its own. You can also try pulling your upper eyelid down over the lower eyelid and letting go. This may cause your eye to tear up and flush out the foreign object.
3. If the foreign object is still in your eye, pull your upper eyelid down and gently remove the object with a clean, damp cloth or tissue. You can also use a cotton swab or the corner of a clean cloth.
4. If the object is embedded in your eye or you are unable to remove it yourself, seek medical attention immediately.
5. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before attempting to remove the foreign object.
6. Avoid rubbing your eye, as this can cause further irritation or damage.
7. After the object is removed, flush your eye with clean water or saline solution to remove any remaining debris