Eye protection: simple ways to keep your eyes safe
Your eyes are one of the easiest parts of your body to damage — and one of the hardest to fix. Small choices every day cut risk: sunglasses, proper goggles at work, taking breaks from screens, and clean contact lens habits. This page gives practical, no-fuss tips you can use right away.
Sunglasses matter
Look for lenses that block 100% UVA and UVB. Wraparound styles protect the sides. Polarized lenses reduce glare on water or snow, which helps when driving or fishing. Cheap lenses without UV protection can actually do more harm by letting pupils open wider and exposing the retina.
At work
Match protection to the hazard. Safety glasses are fine for light debris. Goggles seal out liquids and fine dust. Face shields add splash protection when chemicals are involved. For power tools pick impact-rated gear (ANSI Z87.1 or equivalent). Replace scratched, warped, or cracked lenses — they reduce protection and can distort vision.
Sports and hobbies need their own rules. Racquet sports, cycling, woodworking, and paintball cause many preventable eye injuries. Use sport-specific eyewear with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses and secure straps. For kids, fit matters: small goggles that sit close to the face keep objects from slipping inside during play.
Contact lens hygiene
is non-negotiable. Always wash and dry your hands before touching lenses. Follow the cleaning solution and replacement schedule your eye care professional gives you. Never reuse single-use lenses. If your eyes feel irritated, red, or you notice blurred vision, remove lenses and see an eye specialist promptly.
Screens and dry eyes
Are a modern problem. Reading or working at a screen cuts your blink rate and dries the tear film. Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Blink consciously, use a humidifier if your environment is dry, and consider preservative-free artificial tears for occasional relief.
Some medications can affect the eyes. Long-term corticosteroids may raise eye pressure. Certain antimalarial drugs and isotretinoin can change vision or tear production. If a medication causes visual changes, report it to your doctor and schedule an eye exam.
When to see an eye care professional: sudden vision loss, flashes of light, new floaters, severe pain, or anything that does not improve in 24 hours. Regular eye exams catch early disease and give personalized advice about protection and screening.
Quick checklist you can use now: wear 100% UV sunglasses outdoors, use ANSI-rated protection for work, choose sport-specific goggles for play, follow strict contact lens hygiene, use the 20-20-20 rule for screens, and see an eye doctor for any sudden changes.
Sunglasses for kids are crucial because their lenses let more UV through. Choose polycarbonate lenses that are impact-resistant and comfy. For driving, pick lenses that reduce glare but keep color contrast, like gray or brown tints. Replace faded or warped frames—fit matters. Store glasses in a hard case and clean lenses with a soft cloth and mild soap to avoid scratches.
Apr, 29 2023