Vision is essential for everyone. It helps you see and explore the world, identify people and objects, maintain balance and stay safe. However, many people suffer from vision problems. Globally, around 2.2 billion people have some vision impairment. Though some conditions are hereditary, many issues arise due to poor eyesight care and bad habits. You might be surprised to know how some of your everyday practices and activities may be harming your eyesight. If you want to protect your eyesight in the years to come, you should break these habits.
Not wearing your contact lenses and glasses prescribed by the doctor is a common mistake. Many people tend to avoid wearing their contacts either due to embarrassment or forgetfulness. It puts extra strain on your eyes as you cannot see correctly. Not only is it dangerous, but it may harm vision, especially in children. In children, not wearing their glasses can lead to problems in eye development. Issues in the normal development of the eye can result in headaches, lazy eye, or other conditions. Adults with crossed eyes or lazy eye also need extra caution. Not wearing their glasses can make the condition worse and permanent.
Did you know that not wearing sunglasses harms your eyesight? While most people are cautious going out in the sun without sunscreen, many don’t find eye protection necessary. However, this habit can cause damage to your vision. Not wearing sunglasses exposes your eyes to the harmful UV and HEV rays from the sun. These rays lead to premature aging and damage to your eyes and eyelids. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to the sun leads to damaged eye surface or photokeratitis, cataracts, macular degeneration, and cancer in some cases. So the next time you go outdoors, try wearing glasses that block the UV rays.
Consider watching this video to know more about how to improve your eyesight…
We’ve all heard how computer and television screens are bad for our eyesight. However, many people have a habit of spending unnecessary time sitting close to screens and binge-watching their favorite shows or working. According to health experts, your monitor or laptop screen should be at least 20 inches away from your eyes. Besides sitting at a distance, sitting in front of screens for prolonged periods should also be avoided. This is because the blue light from digital devices can cause eye strain and focusing problems.
Staying awake till late is a common habit that messes with your vision. Not getting enough sleep and staying up for extra time can cause tired eyes. You may see your eyes getting red and dry. Many people also complain of eye twitches and blurred vision. Using your phones before going to bed can also cause vision damage and harm your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
According to an estimate, around one billion people across the globe have the habit of smoking. This habit causes various health problems, including eyesight issues. According to research, smoking can cause eye diseases, including macular degeneration, retinopathy, cataracts, and uveitis. Additionally, smokers are at four times higher risk of losing their vision in the future as compared to non-smokers.
The best way to ensure proper vision and eye health is by having regular eye exams. However, many people tend to skip on them. Routine eye exams are essential and can help stop deteriorating vision problems and diagnose issues that may worsen to cause complete vision loss. Healthy habits, eye protection, and regular exams are the key to good eyesight.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!