Ocular health is often overlooked until a problem arises. Many people don’t think about their eyes until they start experiencing issues like visual decline, infections, or injuries. While treatments and surgeries can address these problems, prevention is always the best approach. Eye doctors recommend avoiding certain behaviors to protect your eyes and maintain good vision as you age. Here are the key actions they advise against.
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Sleeping in Contact Lenses
One of the most common mistakes people make is sleeping in contact lenses. Dr. William McLaughlin, an optometrist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, emphasizes that he never sleeps in his contact lenses unless approved for extended wear by the FDA. Sleeping in contact increases the risk of painful eye infections and corneal damage. Even a short nap with lenses in can allow microbes and bacteria to multiply, potentially leading to serious complications like a corneal ulcer. To avoid these risks, always remove your contact lenses before sleeping, even if you’re just taking a brief nap or dozing off.
Extended Screen Time Without Breaks
Many people spend long hours staring at screens in today’s digital age. This behavior can lead to digital eye strain and increase the risk of developing myopia, especially in young people. Dr. Ella Faktorovich, an eye doctor and founder of Pacific Vision Institute, recommends the “20-20-20 Rule” to alleviate digital eye strain: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice can help reduce eye strain and promote better overall eye health as you age.
Skipping Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining ocular health. Dr. McLaughlin advises examining your eyes at least every year and a half. This is particularly important for individuals with conditions like diabetes, which can increase the risk of developing retinopathy. Retinopathy can lead to severe complications, including retinal detachment, which can cause permanent vision loss. Even if you don’t experience symptoms, regular dilated eye exams can detect early signs of these issues and allow for timely treatment.
Ignoring Sudden Vision Changes
Any sudden vision changes should not be ignored. Dr. Barbara Mihalik, an optometrist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, warns that symptoms like a shower of floaters, flashing lights, or a curtain-like obstruction in vision can indicate a retinal tear or detachment. If caught early, these issues can be treated before leading to more severe consequences. Seeking immediate medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms is crucial.
