Avoid These Bad Habits to Protect Your Eyes

Bad habits are hard to break, that’s for sure.  But it’s even harder when you don’t even realize that some things you do out of habit can actually be causing vision problems!  Take care of your eyes and protect your vision by avoiding the following bad habits.

Going Outside Without Sunglasses

You might think that it’s not necessary to wear your sunglasses if you’re just going out for a quick trip.  But being outside for even a few minutes without them is a bad habit and a bad idea.  Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can cause damage like cataracts, macular degeneration or even skin cancer on your eyelids.

Smoking

Everyone knows that smoking is considered to be a bad habit.  But along with the MANY other dangers associated with smoking, it can also have harmful effects on your vision.  The smoke and chemicals from tobacco can damage blood vessels in your eyes, affect tear production and reduce the amount of oxygen that gets to the eyes.  Smoking has been linked to vision loss and a number of eye diseases.

Wearing Old Makeup

Yes, makeup is expensive, so you may be hesitant to throw it away if there’s anything left to use.  But keeping it around could end up costing you your vision.  Old makeup can grow harmful bacteria that can lead to a serious infection.  Try to develop a habit of regularly checking the expiration dates on your cosmetics and getting rid of any makeup that is more than about 4 months old.

Wearing Contacts For Too Long

Many people who wear contacts are probably guilty of leaving them in for longer than they should for any number of reasons.  Too tired to take them out?  Forgot to bring your supplies with you?  Trying to save money by extending the time you wear them?  Get rid of these bad habits now!  Wearing contacts for too long can significantly increase the risk of infection and can cause damage to your corneas.

Thinking You Don’t Need To Visit An Eye Doctor

Believing you are immune to vision problems is indeed a very bad habit.  Nobody is invincible and eye conditions and diseases can happen to anyone.  Just because you think your vision is fine, does NOT mean that’s actually the case.  Many vision conditions do not show any symptoms in the early stages, so you don’t notice a problem until it is too late.

Always make time to see your eye doctor for regular comprehensive eye exams!  It is the best way to ensure your eyes are getting the best care and that any potential issues are diagnosed early enough to start successful treatment.  Call Family Vision Development Center today at 630-862-2020 for more information.

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