A brand new year is just around the corner. For sure, you already have plans and goals in mind for the next 365 or so days. To certainly “keep your eyes on the prize” for the coming year, your optometrist wants you to consider breaking these four bad habits that are damaging your eyes.
1. Rubbing Your Eyes
The skin around your eyes is very thin, which is why it is one of the first areas of your face that will show signs of aging. When you rub your eyes, you could tug the skin, which may eventually result in crow’s feet and drooping eyelids. Moreover, rubbing your eyes can cause the tiny blood vessels in your eyes to burst, which may also lead to puffy eyes and dark circles.
2. Not Wearing UV-Protective Sunglasses
The sun’s harmful rays can damage not only your skin, but also your eyes. The ultraviolet (UV) light can penetrate your eyes and cause changes. This is why you should always use UV-protective sunglasses whenever you’re heading outdoors. You can also have your prescription eyeglasses upgraded with UV-protective coating to serve a double purpose.
3. Smoking
Another habit that damages your eyesight, not to mention the rest of your healthy body, is smoking. Cigarettes contain thousands of harmful chemicals that put you at risk of developing sight-threatening eye diseases. In fact, cigarette smoking has been associated with cataracts, dry eyes, macular degeneration, and more.
4. Not Having Routine Eye Exams
Many people think that they should only have eye exams when they notice something different with their eyes. On the contrary, you should visit your eye doctor at least once every year to ensure your eyes are in good health all year long. This way, we can monitor any changes to your eyes. The sooner we identify them, the better chances we have of maintaining your vision.
For more vision-threatening bad habits, call us at (208) 514-1858. You can also complete our form to schedule an appointment. We serve Eagle, Meridian, and other nearby Idaho communities.
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