Ocular Obstacles: Top Things You Might Be Doing That Are Ruining Your Vision

There are many things you may be doing on a regular basis that may ruin your eyesight. It is easy to assume that you have to accept diminishing eyesight as a normal part of the aging process, but there are things you can do to slow that loss. Most things that negatively affect your eyesight are simple bad habits that you can easily remedy.

Protect Your Eyes from Sun Damage

Long term damage from sun exposure is permanent and irreversible. Sun damage can lead to cancer, macular degeneration, and cataracts. You can greatly reduce sun damage by wearing sunglasses with 99 percent UVA/UVB protection. Don't assume that cloudy weather provides enough protection from the sun. Keep sunglasses handy and wear them for all outdoor activities. Select a pair that wrap around slightly, to prevent UVA and UVB rays from coming in the sides of the glasses.

Reduce Computer and Phone Time

Two or more hours on the phone or computer is enough to cause eye issues. Too much screen time leads to dry, tired eyes and blurry vision. Reduce the amount of time you spend on these devices, and take frequent breaks from staring at the screen.

Don't Rub Your Eyes

You may feel relief when rubbing your eyes, but it can actually lead to damage. If itching is related to allergies, rubbing the eyes triggers the release of histamines, which makes itching worse. Rubbing your eyes can also spread viruses or bacteria into the eyes, which may lead to infection, causes changes in the cornea, or induce astigmatism. While these problems can be serious, they can also be treated with help from a medical professional, such as one from the Cornea Consultants of Nashville.

Take Your Contacts Out

It can be tempting to leave your contacts in at the end of the day, but it isn't a good idea. Your eyes, like the rest of your body, use the night to recuperate from the day's activities. When you keep your contacts in, it makes it difficult for the cornea to get necessary lubrication, oxygen, and nutrients. Sleeping in your contacts can even lead to infections of the cornea.

Making these few changes to your routine can greatly decrease your odds of damaging your eyesight. Regular examinations can catch problems early, when they are more easily treated. Working with a professional give you the best odds of protecting your eyesight over a lifetime.