Fall semester is underway for colleges in the Houston area. Between classes, studying, friends, work and football games, we know your days are full, but it’s still important to remember to take care of your eyes and look after your eye health. The following easy college student eye care tips can help you keep your eye health in check for another successful year.
College Student Eye Care Tips
Remove contacts before showering or swimming. On a tight class schedule, it may be easy to forget how important it is to remove your contact lenses before showering or swimming. Acanthamoeba keratitis is a serious eye infection caused by a parasite that lives in water. Approximately 85 percent of cases occur in contact lens wearers, and the highest risk comes from water exposure in the shower, a hot tub, or swimming in lakes and pools.
Practice good hygiene. Washing your hands regularly and practicing good hygiene in general helps to protect your eyes from infection. We come in contact with a large amount of bacteria and debris on a daily basis. Most people do not think about how often they rub or touch their eyes, so good hygiene is important.
Spend some time outdoors. Staring at a computer screen or books for extended periods of time can easily fatigue the eyes. Ensure you have sun protection, and spend some time outdoors to give your eyes a break. A good rule of thumb to avoid eye strain is to remember 20-20-20: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Be vigilant during sports. Whether you play sports for a college team or recreationally, always wear the recommended eye protection. Eye injuries in sports can be very serious.
Sharing is not always caring. Some things such as makeup, contact lens cases, and contact lens solution should not be shared. Bacteria is a concern when it comes to sharing cosmetics and other things that come close to or come in contact with the eye.
Remember to get regular eye exams. With a busy schedule, it is easy to forget to schedule your yearly eye exam. However, regular eye exams can diagnose eye diseases and other vision problems early, and ensure everything is okay with your vision and eye health. Do not put off your eye exam, and make sure to make a note on your calendar when you are due for an exam each year.
Remember Your Eye Care This Fall
Eye infections are no fun to deal with and can cause serious and painful issues. By exercising care in regards to your eye health and contact lens or glasses care, you can greatly reduce the risk of eye problems. Regular eye exams are also important for eye and vision health upkeep.
Berkeley Eye Center is here to help you transition into the school year with healthy eyes. Our experienced team of eye doctors offer eye exams, LASIK, treatments and more for students. Call 713-526-3937 today or visit our website to schedule an appointment or consultation.