Excessive use of screens and overuse of air conditioning can damage your eyes and cause vision problems.
Did you know that excessive use of screens and overuse of air conditioning can affect your eye health? Yes, it is! They can contribute to intense dryness of the eyes and lead to problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, corneal opacities or extensive changes in the retina. Below, the ophthalmologist at Hospital São Marcelino Champagnat, Dhiogo Corrêa, has listed some precautions to prevent the development of these problems and preserve your vision. Check out:
Eyes need rest
One of the current evils for eye health is the excessive use of screens, both cell phones and computers. The ophthalmologist explains that when we are exposed to these devices, the number of blinks tends to decrease, altering the natural lubrication of the eyes.
“The guideline is to take regular rest breaks during the workday and avoid using the cell phone for long hours. Every 20 minutes, we should stop for 20 seconds and look at a distance greater than 20 feet (6 meters). This can be through a window, for example, this will relax the eye muscles and reduce eye strain,” advises the doctor.
Sleep is also very important to maintain eye health. Not getting enough sleep can cause redness, tired eyes, and even swelling in the area.
Don’t scratch your eyes
Due to the large exposure to the environment, it is normal for impurities, such as dust and pollen, to be perceived by the eyes. The automatic reflex is to bring the hands to the area, but the guide is that people act differently.
“When you feel something in your eye, try blinking more frequently. In most cases, this repeated movement succeeds in expelling the foreign body. In addition, scratching your eyes is a dangerous action, since the cornea is extremely sensitive and can be easily damaged,” adds the specialist.
If the foreign body, burning, or itching sensation persists, lubricating eye drops may help. If it still doesn’t improve, you should see an ophthalmologist. Eye scratching is linked to a condition in which itchy trauma to the surface of the eye causes a potentially serious deformity called keratoconus.
Additionally, bacteria, microorganisms, and dirt on your hands can cause irritation or even infection in the eye area. If it is essential to touch your eyes, make sure your hands are clean.
Avoid air conditioning
The use of air conditioning and fans is harmful to the eyes, as they dry out the organs quickly. It is ideal to avoid their use when possible. In very hot weather and with the need to use devices, the use of lubricating eye drops, known as “artificial tears”, is recommended.
Be careful when using eye drops
Artificial tears are eye drops that are safe for daily use. They should not be confused with vasoconstrictor eye drops (those blue bottles that take away redness). Vasoconstrictors pose a risk to eye health and should be avoided.
According to the ophthalmologist, there are two main types of artificial tears: those with preservatives and those without preservatives. Those with preservatives can be safely used up to five times a day. Those without preservatives can be used as desired according to the wishes and needs of each person.
Wear quality sunglasses
Sunglasses with ultraviolet (UV) protection should be used whenever you are exposed to sunlight. UV light damages the cells of the retina, causing them to age prematurely. In addition, the incidence of UV rays can cause premature cataracts and even degenerative diseases of the retina.
Consult an ophthalmologist
In addition to all these precautions, it is also essential to consult an ophthalmologist regularly. Ophthalmological evaluation is essential to identify these problems. “Unfortunately, many people neglect their eye health and only seek specialist care when something is not right. The medical advice is to have a check-up every year for those who do not have specific problems. Taking care of your eyes is essential to keep them healthy. good vision and a guarantee of quality of life”, concludes Dhiogo Corrêa.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
