You use your eyes practically every waking moment of every day. But are you giving them the care and consideration they deserve to stay healthy? Dr. Linda Vu reveals everyday mistakes you might be making that could hurt your eyes.
Wearing Your Contacts Too Long
If you do not follow the instructions on your contacts and wear them too long, you end up depriving your corneas of the oxygen they need and subjecting yourself to infection and bacterial growth. Refrain from wearing your contacts for longer than their prescribed length, and do not sleep in them.
Rubbing Your Eyes too Vigorously
Rubbing your eyes too hard can cause broken blood vessels and inflammation; it can also transmit germs from your hands to your eyes. If you feel an itch that you have to scratch, try to keep your eyelids closed and only touch the outside of your lid. Don’t use too much pressure, either.
Forgetting Your Sunglasses At Home
The sun is one of the biggest threats to the health of your eyes, as some research suggests sun exposure can increase the risk of problems like cataracts and pterygium. Be diligent about wearing a quality pair of sunglasses whenever going outside into the sun. Experts like Dr. Vu recommend wraparound sunglasses that protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Playing Sports without the Proper Protection
Certain sports, including contact/collision sports, racquetball and tennis, are associated with high occurrences of eye injuries. Lower your risk of sports-related eye injuries by wearing the appropriate protective eyewear.
Ignoring the Expiration Date on Cosmetics
Using an old tube of mascara or an eyeliner pen without replacing the products every few months is risky. Cosmetics can become contaminated with germs that threaten the health of your eyes. Pay attention to the expiration dates on makeup (particularly your eye makeup) and replace at the recommended intervals.
Focusing on Digital Devices for Hours on End
Looking at computer, tablet or smartphone screens for hours on end is risky; these screens emit blue light which can fatigue and possibly harm the eyes. When using these types of devices, give yourself breaks every 20 minutes to focus on an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds; experts call this the “20-20-20” rule.
Contact Linda Vision with Questions
If you have questions about keeping your eyes safe and healthy for years to come, we can help. Please call or email us today to get in touch with the doctor.