6 Risk Factors For Poor Eye Health You Shouldn’t Overlook
By Space Coast Daily // October 20, 2021
We all know that the best way to maintain a healthy lifestyle is by eating right and exercising regularly. But what about your eyes? Your eyesight can deteriorate as you age, even if you don’t have any prior eye problems.
And while eye problems can be associated with certain preexisting health conditions, several bad habits can put your eyes at risk. That’s why it’s essential to take care of your eyes and be aware of the risk factors that cause problems.
Failing to abide by contact lens best practices
If you wear contact lenses, it is crucial to follow the proper procedures outlined by your optometrist. Contact lenses have been shown to increase the risk of certain eye infections, such as pink eye or conjunctivitis. In some cases, these infections can lead to blindness if left untreated.
You should replace your contacts according to your medical professionals’ advice with the help of retailers like 1 800 Contacts, who make renewing a prescription as easy as a one-click process.
Not wearing sunglasses
Even if you don’t wear contact lenses, you can still take steps to protect your eyes from the ultraviolet light that causes damage. One of the most beneficial things you can do is opt for sunglasses when outside in bright sunlight.
Most sunglasses have a UV protection factor (UPF) number on them. This number shows how well they block out UV radiation and protect your baby blues or blushing browns.
Exercising without proper eyewear
If you’re going to go running or biking, make sure you have a pair of glasses or contacts that provide adequate eye protection from debris such as sweat, dirt, or even insects. If you’re exercising outside in a public area, make sure that your glasses or contacts have a comfortable and secure fit so they won’t slip out of place while you work out.
Lack of regular eye exams
It’s essential to see your eye doctor for a comprehensive vision assessment every two years. If you don’t, you could miss early signs of disease like macular degeneration or glaucoma, leading to permanent loss of sight if left untreated. If you have a family history of eye disease, make sure to schedule regular exams more frequently.
Not wearing appropriate protective eyewear at work
If your job exposes you to hazards such as flying particles or harmful chemicals, make sure to protect yourself by using protective eyewear. Ensure the glasses fit comfortably and securely on your face. If you’re working in an environment with a high risk of chemical exposure, consider asking your employer for industry-grade safety eyewear instead of traditional clear lenses.
Exposure to blue light
While short-term exposure to this type of blue light isn’t necessarily harmful, extended periods may cause damage. To reduce your risk for developing eye issues related to the amount of time you spend glued to your screens each day, purchase software that will allow you to adjust the color hue on your screen or limit your screen time.
Not only will this help protect your eyes from the effects of high amounts of blue light, but it should also make using your mobile device or computer more comfortable for your eyes.
Take Preventative Measures
Taking care of your eyes and reducing your risk factors doesn’t mean that you’ll never have an eye problem in your lifetime. However, taking preventative measures can reduce the risk of severe and potentially sight-threatening eye conditions.
