Rubbing your eyes

Rubbing your eyes might offer temporary relief from itchiness or irritation, but it poses significant risks to eye health. Frequent rubbing can damage the cornea, leading to thinning and deformation, which in turn affects vision. This habit also increases the risk of developing keratoconus, a condition where the cornea weakens, becomes sensitive to light, and causes vision loss.

Not wearing sunglasses outdoors

Sunglasses block ultraviolet (UV) rays, a factor linked to macular degeneration, cataracts, and skin cancer around the eyes. Failing to wear sunglasses exposes your eyes and eyelids to UV radiation for extended periods, raising the risk of eyelid cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma. For optimal eye protection, choose sunglasses that block 99-100% of UV rays.

Sleeping without removing contact lenses

Individuals using weekly or monthly contact lenses must remove them before sleeping and store them in a clean case with a specialized disinfecting solution. Sleeping or swimming while wearing contact lenses significantly increases the risk of severe eye infections.

Excessive alcohol consumption

Consuming too much alcohol can damage eye tissues like the cornea and retina, which are light-sensitive structures. This habit also negatively affects the optic nerve, especially in individuals with glaucoma, accelerating disease progression. Therefore, limiting or avoiding alcohol helps better protect vision.

Not removing eye makeup

Applying makeup without thorough removal, using expired cosmetics, or applying products too close to the eyelid margin can cause irritation, block oil glands, and increase the risk of eye infections. To protect your eyes, keep your eyelids clean, avoid sharing cosmetics, and always remove eye makeup before bed.

Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle

A diet lacking essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fatty acids can negatively impact eye health. Vitamin A helps maintain vision in low light, vitamin C contributes to reducing cataract risk, and omega-3s support the prevention of glaucoma and macular degeneration. Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, can improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce intraocular pressure, thereby protecting long-term vision.

Bao Bao (According to Very Well Health)