Daily routines can influence how well the eyes stay healthy and can play a role in eye diseases. Valentina Anisimova, an ophthalmologist at SM-Clinic, discussed this with socialbites.ca. A notable area of concern is reading while commuting on public transit or focusing on a screen for long periods.
Experts warn that people who read on buses, subways, or trains may strain their eyes more than they realize. Reading in moving vehicles requires constant eye movements and shifts in focus, which places extra load on the ciliary muscles. Over time, this can reduce visual clarity and make fine details harder to discern.
Another poor habit, reading while lying down or spending long stretches at a computer, can raise the risk of computer vision syndrome. When the eye’s focus cannot settle properly because of the viewing angle, the eyes may repeatedly jump from one point to another. This ongoing strain can contribute to a decline in vision and general eye fatigue.
Anisimova notes that many people read or work on a computer in dim lighting or in excessively bright light without recognizing the potential harm. Poor lighting continuously stresses the visual system, leading to muscle tension and dryness of the eyes. Staring at screens for long periods in suboptimal light can tax the retina’s photoreceptor cells, causing increased energy use and slower recovery. Visual disturbances like dark spots or flashes can be signs of photoreceptor strain, underscoring the importance of a proper lighting setup to help protect eyesight.
Additionally, improper use of glasses or contact lenses is a common problem. Eyewear should support both clear vision and healthy eye function. Wearing the wrong lenses or wearing them too long can fail to correct alignment issues and may contribute to various eye conditions. Consulting an eye care professional before purchasing or updating optical devices helps ensure the right fit and avoids unnecessary eye strain or progression of potentially harmful conditions.
Another issue is handling lenses with dirty hands or neglecting lens hygiene. Poor hygiene can lead to bacterial infections that irritate the eye membranes, causing burning, redness, and discomfort. Monitoring how long contact lenses are worn and replacing expired lenses is essential. Poor storage or extended wear can raise the risk of infections and, in severe cases, may contribute to corneal complications that threaten vision.
Makeup and cosmetics near the eye area also deserve scrutiny. Some products may irritate or damage the eye, especially if they are contaminated or worn for long periods. If eye irritation occurs, consulting an eye care professional promptly is important to prevent lasting effects on vision. Early attention can help avoid complications that could cloud vision over time.
Overall, attention to lighting, mindful reading or screen habits, proper eyewear use, lens hygiene, and cautious cosmetics use all contribute to maintaining healthy vision and reducing the risk of common eye problems.