If you think about how often you use your eyes each day, you might be surprised by how much strain you are actually putting on them.

In fact, according to a report from the ABC, we actually spend almost 9 hours a day looking at screens. Even if you personally don’t, it’s a safe bet that you invest a lot of time scrolling on phones, working on laptops or computers, and watching TV. 

With our eyes constantly switched on, it’s easy to forget that these complex sensory organs need looking after just like the rest of our bodies. That is why we should all prioritise protecting our eyesight to help them remain healthy well into the future. 

Here’s how we can do this through some simple daily habits.

Why Is It Important To Look After Your Eyes?

You might not be aware of this, but the vast majority of vision impairment and blindness is preventable or treatable if detected early. This is why it is imperative to look after your eyes.

If you don’t, many serious eye conditions, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, can often develop without early warning signs. They can lead to a permanent loss of sight if they are not professionally monitored and managed.

The great thing about your eyes is that they are incredibly adaptable. That is why it’s easy to overlook early signs of strain. However, over time, everyday behaviours like extended screen use or poor lighting can slowly impact your vision. You may not even realise this until damage has been done.

By looking after your eyes now, you’ll go a long way towards reducing the risk of issues occurring later in life. If your eyes are already affected, services like Focus Vision LASIK can help, depending on your condition. 

What Are The Most Common Everyday Habits That Affect Your Eyes?

Most of us are aware that spending long hours on digital devices can place extra pressure on our eyes. However, you may not be aware that doing this reduces your blink rate. This, in turn, can result in your experiencing dryness and discomfort.

Eye issues can also arise from lighting. That is because working in dim spaces or dealing with glare from bright overhead lights can force your eyes to work harder than they should. If this continues over a prolonged period, it can lead to fatigue and headaches.

Another factor that can affect your optical function is not drinking enough water or eating foods, such as carrots, leafy greens, and fatty fish, that are good for eye health. Not providing them with enough nutrients to stay lubricated and supported can cause you issues with your sight.

What Can You Do To Protect Your Eye Health

The good news is that there are a few things you can do to reduce the chances of your eye health deteriorating. We’ve already touched upon the importance of staying well hydrated and eating the right foods. But here are five other things you can do:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

One of the easiest ways to reduce eye strain naturally when using your devices is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. This states that every 20 minutes, you should take a 20-second break to look at something about 20 feet away. If you do this, it gives your eye muscles a chance to relax and reset.

This simple habit is easy to fit into your everyday routine. However, to help you in the short term, consider setting an alarm on your device to remind you to do so.

2. Blink More

Blinking is exceptionally important, as it helps spread moisture across the surface of your eyes. However, when you’re focused on a screen, you actually tend to blink less. Over a prolonged period of time, this can lead you to experience dryness and irritation. That is why it is important to make a conscious effort to blink regularly.

3. Adjust Your Screen Setup

Did you know? The positioning of your screen can have a big impact on how comfortable your eyes are. As much as possible, try to keep your screen at eye level and about an arm’s length away.

You may also find it helpful to reduce the glare and adjust the brightness to help reduce strain and make spending long periods of time on your screen much easier on your eyes.

4. Spend Time in Natural Light

Wherever possible, you should spend some time every day in natural light. If you can do this, it will help your eyes adjust to different lighting conditions. It will also reduce the stress that artificial lighting can cause to your eyes.

It’s amazing how much of a difference going for a short walk, or even just sitting in your garden, can make for your eyes.

5. Wear Sunglasses

When you are outside, UV exposure can cause real damage to your eyes if you do not wear sunglasses. It can, for instance, cause short-term damage such as photokeratitis (a painful eye sunburn). Additionally, it will put you at greater risk of suffering from long-term, irreversible harm caused by cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygium (surfer’s eye), and cancer of the eyelid.

When choosing a pair of sunglasses, make sure you go for one that offers proper UV protection when you’re outdoors. It is worth seeking professional advice from your local optometrist to find a suitable option.

What Are The Signs To Look Out For That Your Eyes Might Need More Care?

Like most other parts of your body, your eyes often give you subtle signals when they need attention. For instance, you might notice:

• Dryness
• Blurred vision
• Feeling of heaviness after long periods of focus

You might also start to develop headaches, which can also be linked to eye strain. Especially if they started after you have been looking at a screen for a long time. Moreover, poor eye health can also be indicative of cognitive decline.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to pay attention and make an appointment with an optometrist as soon as you can. Having your sight is a special gift. So, you’ll want to do all you can to look after it for as long as possible.