7 everyday habits that could be harming your eyes
Our eyes are an important and sensitive part of our bodies, but their health is often overlooked until we begin to experience issues. While many of us exercise to boost our heart health or eat well to promote a strong digestive system, we often unknowingly engage in habits that can harm our eyes. Here are seven things you might be doing that hurt your eyes.
1. Staring at screens
You’re likely aware of how much we as modern individuals stare at screens. We use them for work, finding directions, shopping, entertainment and more - and screen time quickly builds up. Prolonged screen time can cause eye strain, leading to headaches, dry eyes, neck pain and other symptoms. To help prevent this, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minute look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
2. Not wearing sunglasses
Sunglasses are more than a fashion statement - they actively protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Even in winter, it’s advisable to have a pair of shades to hand for bright days. It will reduce your risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration and other conditions. Always choose sunglasses with a UV400 label, as they will block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays.
3. Sleeping with contact lenses in
Even if you’re only intending to take a short nap, getting some shuteye with your contact lenses in can harm your eyes. Contact lenses give bacteria and microbes a breeding ground, increasing the risk of infection. They can also get stuck in your eye, causing discomfort and surface abrasions.
4. Sleeping with makeup on
It’s also important to remove eye makeup before you go to sleep at night. Products such as mascara and eyeliner can block your pores, leading to a buildup of bacteria on the lashes and around the eye. At best, this can cause irritation and dryness; at worst, particles of makeup can enter the eye and scratch the cornea.
5. Not hydrating
How many times have you suddenly realised you haven’t had a sip of water all day? Dehydration affects your body in numerous ways and can cause your eyes to become dry and irritated. Aim to drink six to eight cups of water each day to promote better eye health.
6. Getting water on your contact lenses
Whether it’s going swimming with your lenses in or accidentally dropping them in the sink during cleaning, it’s easy to get water on your contacts. But doing so exposes them to harmful microorganisms, increasing the risk of infection.
7. Skipping your eye exams
Routine eye exams aren’t just about checking the quality of your sight. They’re a chance for your optometrist to assess your overall eye health and offer recommendations. They may even spot potential issues such as glaucoma or cataracts, meaning you can get the necessary treatment before symptoms worsen. So if you haven’t searched for ‘eye optician near me’ and booked an appointment recently, now is a good time to do so!
Eye health with The Eye Establishment
If you’re looking for the best optician in London to help you stay on top of your eye health, visit The Eye Establishment in Kensington and Chelsea. Our experts will assess your vision and check for any issues, giving you peace of mind. Simply search ‘best optician in Kensington’ or book directly via our website.