The way or pattern in which we live our lives, the activities we engage in, and the social actions which we often indulge in describe our lifestyles and habits.
It’s worthy of note to mention that our lifestyles affect our health especially our eyes in ways we can’t possibly imagine.
It’s therefore, important that we know some lifestyles we should steer clear of and avoid because of how detrimental they are to our Eye health.
SMOKING
This increases the risk of age related macular degeneration, Cataracts, glaucoma, dry eyes Syndrome and even retinopathies.
This is aside lung cancer and heart disease which are also called by smoking.
Smoking also can increase your chances of getting diabetes and alongside, make its management difficult.
Statistics showed that smokers are 3-4times more likely to develop Age related macular degeneration than non – smokers.
ALCOHOL
This causes blood vessels in the eyes to dilate causing redness of the eyes, dry eyes and even permanent damage to the optic nerve.
It also weakens the eye muscles as well as altering the interaction between the brain and the eyes, thus the double and distorted vision.
Long-term abuse of alcohol can also lead to Toxic Amblyopia or vision loss.
EXCESSIVE CAFFEINE CONSUMPTION
Excessive Caffeine or caffeinated beverages intake can suddenly spike up the blood sugar levels, which in turn leads to blurred vision even spasms of the eyelid (twitching).
It can also cause burning sensations in the eye.
Caffeine intake in moderation is okay.
Note that patients with a genetic predisposition to higher Eye pressure, excessive caffeine intake can increase the risk of glaucoma onset as it causes intraocular pressure to rise as it’s linked to increase in production of the aqueous humor.
LACK OF HYDRATION
Lack of Hydration leads to various symptoms of dehydration which includes thirst, dry mouth, reduced urine output which in turn leads to raised Urea level in the blood, muscle cramps, Headaches, lightheadedness, sleepiness, and lack of tears production.
When the eyes stop producing tears, the eyes are no longer being properly lubricated which leads to dry eyes, eye strain and vision problems.
LACK OF SLEEP
Lack of good sleep can affect all areas from the thought process to coordination.
There is a correlation between lack of sleep and the eyes bag or dark circles often seen under the eyes. Lack of sleep increases the retention of blood and fluid around the eyes.
Sleepy eyes are often dry. Insomnia prevents the eyes from getting the needed fluid circulation which in turn affects the eye health.
Another is eye spasms or myokymia that is involuntary eye twitching because the eye muscles are denied adequate rest via sleep.
Popped blood vessels that is bloodied eyes, though not painful but isn’t good in appearance is another symptom seen.
Another rare condition is Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (AION), this is linked to people with sleep apnea where the vessels are inflamed which can result in vision loss.
Do you notice you are having insomnia? Stop making excuses for it, visit your Eye Doctor today.
The list of habits and lifestyles that affect our Eye health in one way or another are endless.
I therefore recommend a personal intermittent review of our way of living.
Knowingly that health is wealth, our lifestyles and habits therefore should not be a harbinger of sickness and death on our overall health.