Daily Habits that Might be Adversely Affecting Your Eyes

We all want to do what is best for our health, eyes, and vision. But sometimes, we may not realize our daily habits might actually be adversely affecting our eyes in big and small ways.  Learning how certain habits may have a negative impact and how to change them can help promote healthy eyes. 

Not wearing sunglasses

If you skip the shades when you go outside, you may be increasing your risk of developing eye problems. As reported by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Too much exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun may increase a person’s risk of developing cataracts.

But don’t just opt for sunglasses on warm sunny days. The sun’s rays can also penetrate through the clouds on an overcast day. Wear sunglasses year-round. Look for a style that covers the sides of your eyes and provides close to 100 percent UV protection. 
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Smoking 

Smoking damages the blood vessels throughout the body, including the eyes. If you smoke, you might be increasing your risk of developing eye diseases that can affect vision. Talk with your doctor about effective quitting methods. 

Not taking breaks from the computer

Many of us spend hours every day staring at a computer screen. Add in time spent on our phones, and it is no wonder digital eyestrain is becoming more common. Although eyestrain will not likely damage the eyes, it can make them feel tired and uncomfortable. Be sure to take frequent breaks from your digital devices. Look away from the screen for at least a few minutes every half hour. 

Rubbing your eyes harshly

We might rub our eyes without even thinking about it. But rubbing the eyes is one way to introduce bacteria into the eye. Plus, the skin around the eye is delicate, and rubbing too hard can damage the skin. 

Skipping sunscreen around your eyes

Hopefully, you remember to apply sunscreen every time you go outside during the daytime. Sunscreen can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer, but don’t forget to put some on the skin around your eyes. This area can also develop skin cancer. Plus, sunscreen may help prevent sun damage that causes wrinkles around the eyes. 

Eating a diet high in sugar 

Sugar is in many of the foods we eat every day. But eating too many sugary foods may increase the likelihood of becoming overweight. Being overweight increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. People with diabetes have a risk of developing vision complications.
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Some of the foods that contain added sugar may surprise you, such as bread, salad dressing, and cottage cheese.  Be sure to read food labels and talk to your doctor about how many daily grams of sugar are right for you. 

Not using eye protection 

We might not think everyday activities, such as cleaning and mowing the lawn, could lead to an eye injury, but they can. Be sure to use the appropriate eye protection for the activity you are doing, such as sports, work, or household projects.

Making changes to your daily habits takes time. Not all changes stick right away but try to implement one small change every few weeks. Even changing a few bad habits can help protect your eyes.

By making some changes you may reduce your risk of developing eye problems. We are happy to provide more information. Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.