Dos and Don’ts for Healthy Eyes
Our eyes may start feeling dry and itchy, or we may even have blurred vision at times when we neglect our eye care. Although eye discomfort can be caused by stress, pollen, or a change in weather, there are certain things that we can do to keep our eyes healthy. This article shares some things to do and not to do for improving eye care.
Wear Sunglasses
When shopping for eye protection, consider buying sunglasses that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. These rays can cause damage to the lens and retina, increasing the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. The color of the lenses isn’t important—only the ability to block UV light matters. Active people should also buy sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses.
Wear Ear Protection
In 2013, over 1.24 million children aged 19 and under were treated in hospital emergency departments for sports-related injuries, according to Safe Kids Worldwide. Kids could avoid these injuries if proper safety precautions were taken. Purchasing the right type of eyewear is the first step to preventing eye injuries during sporting events.
Buy Sunscreen
Skin cancers and sunburn can develop anywhere skin is exposed, including around the eyes. So, make sure to apply sunscreen to the sensitive skin around the eyes to protect against irritation; look for a sunscreen made specifically for the face that offers an SPF of 30 or higher.
Always Wear Goggles
No matter how clear a swimming pool, lake, or ocean appears, small organisms living in the water can cause irritation to the eyes or skin. Wearing goggles while swimming reduces the risk of infection.
Even if the water looks clean, it is probably not as clean as one might hope. The water in oceans, swimming pools, and lakes is likely to be home to a variety of microorganisms that can cause infections and irritations for swimmers—even when wearing goggles. But protective eyewear lowers the chances of the eyes coming in contact with irritants.
Avoid Rubbing the Eyes
Since the cornea is extremely sensitive and rubbing can scratch it, one should never touch their eyes if they have gotten sand, poison ivy oil, or any other foreign material in them. Instead of rubbing the eyes to remove the foreign particles, rinse with fresh water as soon as possible. If the problem persists or worsens, contact an eye doctor immediately.
