Stop making these mistakes with your eye care routines

Lets face it. Sometimes some of us can be a little guilty of neglecting our eyes when it comes to self care. We may even have picked up bad habits that we aren't even aware of. The reality is, that when it comes to eye care and our sight, we need to make sure we treat our eyes as a priority and that's why in this post, we're going to discuss the mistakes that you are making when it comes to your eyes. 

Going out without your sunglasses - EVEN IN WINTER

How many times have you forgotten your sunnies when nipping out to the shops? It's ok you tell yourself, it's not too bright.   Truth is that UV rays can cause our eyes damage that we won't notice until it's too late. UV rays can damage the macular (leading to issues such as macular degeneration), cause melanomas, cause cataracts and other vision problems.  If you regularly squint in the sunlight, this can cause damage to the sight in the long term. Even in Winter, it's important to ensure you are wearing adequate sun protection for your eyes. Look for sunglasses that offer full coverage for your eyes, sunglasses that block at least 99% of UVA rays.  Here at Associated Optical, we have a range of anti-glare and contrast enhancement glasses that offer protection for your eyes.
REMEMBER - Even on cloudy days, it's important to wear sunglasses!

Not getting your eyes tested (enough)

It's so easy to neglect your eye tests. Some of us don't really remember to book our eye tests until we notice a problem (such as straining to read the writing on the tv) but it's really important to pop a reminder on your phone or in your diary.
Ideally we should have our eyes tested every 18 months (sooner if you have experienced previous issues with your sight). Eye tests don't take up too much time but they really are worth the money you may spend on them. In the UK, some patients will even be able to get their eye test for free or claim back a percentage of the cost from their employers (Please look into this to see if you are eligible) Opticians are highly trained and continue their professional development on a regular basis so you know you are in safe hands. If you are nervous, your optician will work with you to ensure that you are comfortable whilst having your eyes checked.
REMEMBER - After having your eye test, put a reminder in your phone or diary to set up another appointment for a date your optician recommends.

Sleeping in your contact lenses

It can be easy to forget about taking your contact lenses out at night. Especially if you are tired. However, sleeping with your contact lenses in can increase risk of eye infections by between 5 & 10 times!
Make sure you wash your contacts in the correct solution and store them as recommended. Never use tap water to clean your contact lenses.

Whilst we're talking about contact lenses, another habit some people mention they do is showering with their contact lenses in. This can cause eye infections or in worse case scenarios - blindness. This is due to amoebas that can easily get onto your contact lenses and then transfer to your eye. 

If you do wear contact lenses, please ensure you change them regularly. If you are a wearer of daily contact lenses, then please replace them on a daily basis and likewise for different types of lens. 
You won't notice it on a day to day basis but your contact lens can easily harbour germs or dirt. Make sure you regularly clean them as recommended and replace them when recommended too.

Rubbing your eyes

It's so annoying when a stray eyelash falls into the eye causing pain and discomfort. We then rub our eyes to get rid of that eye lash. Whilst this won't necessarily cause any damage, if you are the type of person who regularly rubs their eyes, this can cause problems such as keratoconus. 
Keratoconus is a condition where your cornea becomes thin. This can affect your vision. Sometimes this can lead to surgery.

Make up mistakes!

Again, germs and nasties can easily get onto our make up . When it comes to our eye shadows, eye liners, mascaras and brushes, we need to ensure we keep them clean and replace on a regular basis.
Make up brushes should be washed on a weekly basis to ensure they are kept clean. Replace your make up brushes every year. 
Mascara should be changed every 3 months, eye shadow every 2 years. However, if you have had an eye infection such as a stye, we would recommend you change your brushes and mascara/eye liner to prevent any cross contamination.

If you would like more information relating to Glaucoma, Please CLICK HERE to learn more from The McIndoe Centre  

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