We usually think about wearing protective eyewear when we’re outside in the sun or at a job site that requires safety glasses. But what about at home?
It might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but our homes are full of potential eye hazards. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips to help you keep your eyes safe and healthy while you’re at home. Don’t forget—regular eye exams are also key to keeping your eyes healthy!
1. Use proper lighting
Good lighting is key to keeping your eyes comfortable at home. Use bright, non-glare lights in spaces where you spend the most time, such as the kitchen, living room, or home office. Try to avoid dim or flickering lights, since they can lead to eye strain and headaches.
2. Be careful with cleaning products
Many common household cleaning products contain chemicals that can harm your eyes. When using cleaning products, always make sure to read the label carefully and take appropriate safety precautions. Wear gloves and safety goggles to protect your eyes and avoid using sprays or products that can create a mist or spray that can get into your eyes.
3. Take precautions when doing DIY projects
If you’re the type of person who likes to tackle home improvement projects on your own, it’s important to be aware of potential eye hazards. Sawing, drilling, and sanding create dust, debris, and flying particles that can damage your eyes. Wear protective eyewear and consider using a dust mask as well to keep your eyes and lungs safe.
4. Limit the effects of screen time
People today spend a lot of time staring at computer screens, tablets, and smartphones, resulting in eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, and other vision-related problems. To protect your eyes while using a computer, make sure the screen is at least an arm’s length away from your eyes and that your eyes are level with the top of the screen. Remember to also take regular breaks every 20 minutes and focus on an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
5. Avoid rubbing your eyes
We all experience occasional eye itchiness or irritation. While it might be tempting to rub your eyes, try to resist the urge. Rubbing your eyes vigorously can lead to corneal abrasions or transmit bacteria from your hands into your eyes, potentially causing infections.
6. Stay hydrated
Staying properly hydrated is essential for eye health. Dehydration can lead to dry eyes and discomfort. Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day to keep your eyes adequately lubricated.
7. Teach children about eye safety
If you have children at home, educate them about the importance of eye safety. Encourage them to wear protective eyewear when playing sports or engaging in activities that could pose a risk to their eyes.
8. Schedule an eye exam
Even if you’re taking precautions at home, it’s still important to schedule regular eye exams with your eye doctor. Your vision can change over time, and uncorrected vision problems can increase your risk of injury. Your eye doctor can detect any problems early on before they lead to vision loss or accidents.
If you want to learn more about protecting your eyes at home, visit us in Blue Island, IL! Even if you follow these tips, accidents can still happen and jeopardize your vision. Don’t hesitate to contact our office for emergency eye care if you’re experiencing an eye emergency.
