o
observe the following precautions:

1. Never read in light that is very intense or very dim. 2. When the eyes
hurt from reading, stop using them. 3. Never hold a book so that the
smooth page reflects light into the eyes. The best way is to sit or stand
so that the light passes over the shoulder to the book. 4. Never study by
a lamp that is not shaded. 5. Practice cleanliness in the care of the
eyes. Avoid rubbing the eyes with the fingers unless sure the fingers are
clean.

If the eyes are weak, use them less and avoid, if possible, reading by
artificial light. Weak eyes are sometimes benefited by bathing them in
warm water, or with water containing enough salt to make them smart
slightly. Boracic acid dissolved in water (40 grains to 4 ounces of
distilled water) is also highly recommended as a wash for weak eyes.

[Fig. 165]

Fig. 165--*Method of procedure in lifting the eyelid* (Pyle).

*Removal of Foreign Bodies from the Eyes.*--Foreign bodies embedded in the
eyeball should be removed by the oculist or physician. Small particles of
dust or cinder may be removed without the aid of the physician, by
exercising proper care. First let the tears, if possible, wash the
offending substance to the corner of the eye, or edge of the lid, where it
can be removed with a soft cloth. If it sticks to the ball or the under
surface of the lid, it will be necessary to find where it is located, and
then dislodge it from its position. Begin by examining the lower lid. Pull
it down sufficiently to expose the inner surface, and, if the foreign
substance be there, wipe it off with the hem of a clean handkerchief. If
it is not under the lower lid, it will be necessary to fold back the upper
lid. "The patient is told to look down, the edge of the lid and the lashes
are seized with the forefinger and thumb of the right hand (Fig. 165), and
the lid is drawn at first downward and forward away from the globe; then
upward and backward over the point of the thumb or forefinger of the left
hand, which is held stationary on the lid, and acts as a fulcrum."(128)
The foreign body is now removed in the same manner as from the lower lid.
A large lens may be used to good advantage in finding the irritating
substance.

*Strong Chemicals in the Eyes.*--Students in the laboratory frequently,
through accident, get strong chemicals, as acids and bases, in the eyes.
The first thing to do in such cases is quick