February, 2019

Here are 5 common eye care mistakes to be aware of, and some options to help.

5 - Staring at devices all the time

Starting your day looking at your phone, to working on your computer, then crashing in front of the telly, and reading on your Kindle before bedtime – the blue screen is ruling our lives… Staring at screens for a long period of time causes eye strain, headaches and blurred vision. Apart from reducing screen time, Follow the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on an object 20 feet away.

4 - Not wearing sunglasses

Continuous exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can damage your eyes’ natural lens leading to cataracts as well as cause macular degeneration, which eventually leads to sight loss. Choose a pair of sunglasses that blocks at least 99% of UVB rays and at least 95% of UVA rays.

3 - Rubbing your eyes

This is the easiest way to pick up eye infections. If you shake someone’s hand or touch contaminated surfaces, and then rub your eyes, you are transmitting those germs to your eyes.

2 - Wearing contact lenses to bed

Unless under the supervision of your Optometrist, extended use of contact lenses, especially overnight, deprives your corneas of oxygen and can encourage bacterial growth which cause eye infections. Always remove your lenses before bed, and clean and store correctly.

1 - Not getting regular eye exams

Deterioration in eyesight is usually gradual and often goes unnoticed. An eye examination not only checks your vision, but also looks at overall eye health and can detect other health issues, e.g. diabetes, tumours and heart diseases. Many eye problems are completely preventable – with proper eye care on a regular basis. It’s a good idea to get a thorough exam at least every year.

Dr. Bains is a British Optometrist with 23 years of experience. She offers her clients Holistic Eyecare integrating nutrition and healthy lifestyle to ensure optimal vision.