Top 5 Everyday Habits That Could Be Harming Your Eye Health

Our eyes are essential to nearly every aspect of our daily lives, yet it’s easy to overlook how everyday routines might affect their long-term health. Many common habits can gradually damage your eyes or increase your risk for vision problems down the road. At Ascent Eye Care, we believe that protecting your vision starts with being aware of these risks.
 

1. Excessive Screen Time

From computers to smartphones and tablets, digital screens are everywhere. Spending long hours staring at screens can lead to digital eye strain, causing symptoms like dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. The blue light emitted from screens can also contribute to eye fatigue and discomfort. To reduce strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
 

2. Rubbing Your Eyes

It’s easy to rub your eyes when they feel itchy or tired, but this habit can be harmful. Rubbing your eyes can transfer dirt and bacteria, increasing your risk of infections. It can also aggravate conditions like allergies or even cause damage to the cornea over time.
 

3. Not Wearing Sunglasses

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can be as harmful to your eyes as they are to your skin. Prolonged exposure to UV light can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. Make it a habit to wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever you’re outdoors, even on cloudy days.
 

4. Sleeping in Contact Lenses

If you wear contact lenses, never sleep in them unless your eye doctor has prescribed lenses specifically for overnight use. Sleeping in contacts reduces the amount of oxygen reaching your eyes, which can lead to irritation, infection, or even more serious complications like corneal ulcers.
 

5. Ignoring Eye Protection

Whether you’re doing yard work, cleaning with chemicals, or working on a home improvement project, it’s important to protect your eyes. Not wearing appropriate protective eyewear can put you at risk for injuries or exposure to harmful substances.
 

Why You Should Never Skip Annual Comprehensive Eye Exams

Even if you don’t have noticeable vision problems, annual comprehensive eye exams are essential for maintaining healthy eyes. Many eye diseases, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration, can develop without obvious symptoms in their early stages. Regular eye exams allow your optometrist to detect these issues early, when treatment is most effective, and help ensure you’re seeing your best.
 

Make Your Eye Health a Priority

Small changes to your everyday habits can make a significant difference in your long-term eye health. Protecting your eyes from strain, infection, UV exposure, and injury is key - but so is regular, professional care.

Schedule your annual comprehensive eye exam with Ascent Eye Care to keep your vision clear and your eyes healthy for years to come. Visit out office in Salida, Colorado, or call (719) 539-3581 to book an appointment today.