Protecting your eyes is one thing you should never compromise on as that is the best way to preserve your eyesight over time. Certain everyday habits can be very beneficial since they don’t take much effort. Here are a number of everyday habits that can make your eyesight as clear as day.
Reduce Screen Time
Smartphones, laptops, and other devices are a big part of our lives today, and while they are very useful, they’re not doing anything to protect your eyesight.
Staring at the screen for extended periods of time can cause computer vision syndrome, which is marked by eye strain, blurred vision, headaches, and dry eyes.
Take frequent breaks during the day by way of the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look away at something else for 20 seconds that’s at least 20 feet away, to give your eyes a break from using your near vision. This is why you have tired eyes after a long work day.
Quit Smoking
Tobacco is extremely toxic to the cells of the retina, a thin layer of tissue lining the back of the eye, and significantly increases the risk of developing macular degeneration, which may lead to blindness. Macular degeneration occurs when the central part of the retina (the macula) deteriorates.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration worsens dry eye symptoms, so if you’re travelling by air, drink lots of water before and during a flight to protect eyesight. You can enjoy alcoholic and caffeinated drinks as long as you drink extra water to make up for fluid loss. Also, the overhead air conditioning tends to blow dry air directly into your eyes, so close the vents before takeoff.
Face the A/C away from your eyes
Blasting your air conditioning system directly on your face may feel good on a hot day, but it can cause problems on your eyes. The dry air removes natural moisture on the surface of your eyes. To protect eyesight, point the air vents away from your face.
Use Shades
Use sunglasses that protect against 100 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays, that can damage your eyes. Note that the fact that they are more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean they will offer better protection. Make your choice fashionable by going for the best sunglasses for your face shape.
Wear On Cloudy Days Too
One of the common myths about sunglasses is that you don’t need them if it isn’t sunny. UV lights still shine through on cloudy days and will hit and damage your eyes. Never leave home unprotected.
Get Regular Eye Examinations
Visit your eye doctor once a year for a comprehensive dilated eye examination. When your eyes are dilated, the doctor can see the back of the eyes and examine them for any signs of damage or disease.
Comprehensive eye exams aren’t just about the eyes. They can also help detect chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Take Your Contact Lenses Off
Never sleep in your contact lenses even if the manufacturer says it is OK. The contact lens surface may allow micro-organisms to adhere to your eye, therefore increasing the likelihood of infection.
Removing your lenses before bed also gives your eyes more contact with oxygen, which decreases the risk of infection.
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