Avoidable blindness refers to blindness that can be prevented or treated. No one in the world would knowingly lose their eye sight if they could help it. This article draws your attention towards common unhealthy habits that cause harm to your eyes, and if unchecked, could result in avoidable blindness in extreme cases. As the saying goes, it is better to be safe than sorry.
1. Too much smartphone time
Trying to read the small text on your smartphone can strain your eyesight and cause vision problems, especially if you’re doing for hours daily. Spending too much time on your cell phone can lead to dry eyes, dizziness, blurry vision, and nausea. Give your eyes breaks every 20 minutes and increase the font size if you find yourself struggling.
2. Smoking
In addition to causing lung cancer and a host of other diseases in various parts of the body, smoking decreases your body’s ability to provide adequate oxygen and nutrition to tissues, including the tissues in the eye. This can put you at a higher risk of developing cataract as well as macular degeneration.
3. Rubbing your eyes frequently
You might think this can’t cause poor eyesight, as “everyone does it.” However, no matter how much you want to rub them, avoid the temptation. You can break the blood vessels under your eyelids. Consider a cold compress to soothe irritation instead.
4. Not including eye-friendly foods in your diet
You’ve probably already heard that carrots are good for your eyesight, but there’s more you can include in your diet to help your eye health. Certain fruits and vegetables are critical to your eyes, especially ones that contain zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins C and E. Yellow- and orange- colored fruited (fruits) and vegetables, dark leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and seafood can all help your eyesight.
5. Not drinking enough water
Stay hydrated—it’s essential for tear production and keeping your eyes lubricated. Dehydration will stop you from producing tears, which you need for moisture. Your eyes can also become dry, puffy, and red, which isn’t attractive or healthy.
6. Not getting enough sleep
No matter how much you think you can get by with just a few hours, you need sleep. Without ample rest, your eyes can become red, bloodshot, and you can get dark circles, dry eyes, and blurred vision. With six to eight hours of sleep a night, you can protect your eyes and improve your overall health.
