Prioritizing Eye Health: What Experts Avoid
Eye health is often something people forget about until an issue comes up. Visual decline, infections, injuries, and various other problems can become more prevalent, especially as we age. While there are treatments and surgeries available, the best scenario would be to prevent these issues in the first place.
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to maintain eye health and prevent infections and damage as we get older. Eye doctors provided insights on the behaviors they strictly avoid for the sake of their eye health. Here are some key practices they’ve shared.
Sleeping in Contact Lenses
“I never sleep in my contact lenses unless they’re FDA approved for extended wear,” said an optometrist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. The reason? The risk of developing painful eye infections and potential cornea damage is just too high.
It’s easy for contact lens users to forget and fall asleep without removing their lenses, especially after a long day or a few drinks. But it’s vital to remember to take them out. “When you sleep in contacts, bacteria can thrive and multiply overnight,” noted an eye doctor and founder of a vision institute. This can lead to serious issues like corneal ulcers, which can even threaten one’s vision.
Not Taking Breaks from Screens
Focusing on a phone, laptop, or book for long stretches can increase the likelihood of myopia in young people and cause eyestrain in individuals of any age. The same eye doctor suggested following the “20-20-20 Rule” to prevent eye strain: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It’s a simple habit that can help maintain eye health over time.
As we age, we naturally develop presbyopia, which might lead to procedures like Monovision LASIK or PRK. Some may also require lens replacement surgery.
Delaying Eye Exams
According to one optometrist, she makes it a point to have her eyes examined yearly. Regular check-ups, especially dilated exams, are crucial for those with underlying health issues like diabetes, which can lead to severe conditions like retinopathy. This can progress to vision loss if not monitored and treated.
Ignoring Sudden Changes in Vision
Another caution shared was not to ignore sudden floaters or flashing lights in your vision, which might signal serious problems like a retinal tear. Early identification is key; this can often prevent a detachment that requires surgical intervention.
Leaving Makeup On Overnight
“Not adequately lubricating the eyes is often overlooked, especially for those who wear contacts or makeup,” mentioned an ophthalmologist. As we age, tear production decreases, which can be particularly problematic for contact lens users. Moreover, makeup left on overnight can hinder tear production and result in infections. It’s best to thoroughly wash your face and eyes before bed.
To combat dryness, using preservative-free artificial tears routinely is a good practice, helping maintain eye lubrication without irritation.
Staring at the Sun
“People should never look directly at the sun,” said one expert, especially during events like solar eclipses when people may be tempted to do so without proper eye protection. This can cause irreversible damage to your retina.
Smoking and Vaping
“These habits are detrimental not just to general health, but specifically to eye health.” Smoking is linked to serious conditions like retinal damage and cataracts, which may require surgical removal. Additionally, the fumes can cause painful dry eyes, leading to discomfort and potential lifelong treatment.
Rinsing Contact Lenses with Tap Water
One eye care professional emphasized that using tap water for rinsing contact lenses is a strict no. This action can significantly increase the risk of microbial keratitis, potentially resulting in severe outcomes like blindness. Instead, always use contact lens solution and replace your lenses as instructed.
Maintaining a Balanced Diet
Finally, “an unbalanced diet can negatively affect your eye health.” Conditions like diabetes can lead to irreversible blindness, commonly linked to poor dietary choices. On the contrary, a balanced diet, particularly a Mediterranean-style one, can greatly reduce the chances of developing eye-related diseases. Plus, incorporating exercise can be immensely beneficial.
