Five Habits That Can Harm the Eyes

Many people aren't aware that certain habits have a negative effect on eye health, potentially leading to decreased vision, infections, and diseases. To maintain correct vision and prevent eye issues from developing, avoid these five actions that can damage the eyes.

Wearing Contact Lenses Incorrectly 

Many contact lens wearers don't necessarily follow strict rules about caring for their lenses. However, adherence to the eye doctor's guidelines can prevent serious eye infection caused by dirty lenses. Remove lenses when swimming or showering. Never wear lenses longer than intended, especially while sleeping or for more than a full day. Swap out lens cases every few weeks to prevent bacterial contamination. Eye infections caused by contact lenses can result in blurred vision.

Using Expired Beauty Products

Keeping track of when mascara, eyeliner, and other cosmetics are purchased allows them to be discarded once they expire. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends getting rid of mascara and other eye makeup after three months. Using products past their prime can irritate the eyes and lead to infection. Try purchasing trial-size items so that they can be used before the expiration date. Avoid sharing eye makeup or applicators with anyone else.

Smoking

While it's widely known that smoking damages the heart and raises risk for cancer, this habit's effects on the eyes are less publicized. Tobacco use increases risks for age-related macular degeneration and cataracts, both of which decrease vision. Among those older than age 50, the risk of these conditions doubles for smokers.

Staring at a Screen

We all do it, but staring at a laptop, tablet, or smartphone screen can have a serious impact on eye health. When we look at these devices without a break, we blink less, thus reducing tear production. As a result, eyes feel fatigued, and vision blurs. The Cleveland Clinic notes that the condition is so common that there's even a name for it—computer vision syndrome (CVS).

Working Without Goggles

Many people do jobs around the home that can be dangerous to the eyes without wearing goggles. Protective eyewear should be used when mowing the lawn, doing construction projects, using a nail gun, painting, or cleaning with harsh chemicals.

In addition to discontinuing these habits, regular visits with the doctors at Coastal Carolina Eye Clinic in Wilmington can help preserve sight and detect existing eye issues. We have been providing area residents with comprehensive eye health services since 1975, including contact and glasses fittings, laser eye correction, cataract surgery, diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions, and much more. Fill out our contact form or call (910) 763-7316 to schedule an appointment today.