Here’s your reminder to take better care of your eyesWake up to a new perspective by making your eye health a priority this Healthy Vision Month. Having healthy vision is not just about getting your eyes checked and eating healthy. There are actions or habits that may affect your vision or eye health.

Here are bad-for-your-eyes habits and the reasons you should stop doing them.

Rubbing your eyes.

It increases your risk of getting scratches on your cornea (the clear dome-shaped layer of your eye) and eye infections.

Smoking.

Smoking is linked to a higher risk of developing a number of eye conditions, such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

Sleeping with your contact lenses.

It increases your risk of eye infections and threatens your vision.

Using eye drops not prescribed by your eye doctor.

Eye drops are medicated so they contain ingredients that are meant to address specific symptoms or conditions. Using one that is not prescribed by your doctor can put your sight at risk of unintended side effects.

Applying unsafe or unproven home remedies.

Home remedies, such as using breast milk to cure sore eyes or putting frozen meat on a black eye, could do more harm than good. These can carry harmful bacteria that may lead to eye infections.

Forgetting to wear protective eyewear at work or at play.

Eye injuries can happen just about anywhere. Wearing protective glasses or goggles can help prevent injuries from happening.

If you feel like something is wrong with your eyes, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with your eye doctor as soon as possible. It is easier to correct or treat eye problems when they are caught early.

Asian Eye Institute is located at Phinma Plaza, Rockwell Center, Makati, with satellite offices located in TriNoma, Quezon City and SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City. For inquiries and appointments, you may call 8898-2020 or send an email to [email protected]. com.

(Story/Photos by: Aizel Maquimot)