The world can be a harsh place for your eyes. There are many work or recreational
activities that may increase your risk of eye injury and strain, including some
that may seem surprising. By being aware of the possible risks, you can protect
yourself from eye damage and strain.
Certain work situations, including handling hazardous chemicals, using power
tools, and being exposed to flying particles, have a high risk of eye damage.
In these situations, it is important to follow your workplace safety measures,
wear proper eye protection (this will vary according to the work situation),
and know the location of the nearest eyewash or first aid station.
In some jobs, the risks are unexpected. If you work with computers or VDTs
(video display terminals) for more than an hour each day, you are at a high
risk of eyestrain. This can lead to headaches, blurred vision, and difficulty
working. Try to take a break from computer use for fifteen minutes during each
two-hour period, or for ten minutes per hour during intensive work. Check your
screen to make sure there is no glare (from a window or lamp) on the screen.
Usually, the screen should be 10 to 20 degrees below your eye level. Your optometrist
can recommend a set-up for your screen and work station that would be best for
you. The American Optometric Association also recommends that you get an
eye exam at least every two years, more often if you are over 60 or are at higher risk for eye problems (e.g., if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or glaucoma, or work in a job that places extra demands on your eyes). Make sure to tell your optometrist if you work at a computer or VDT.
The sports and leisure activities you enjoy may put you at higher risk for
eye injuries. Most sports have some risk for eye injury.Those with the highest
risk are contact sports, racket sports, and sports involving a ball or puck.
Before starting a new sport, find out what kind of eye protection is recommended,
and always wear it. You should be able to find this information from sports-governing
bodies, coaches, or sports stores. If you enjoy outdoor sports or activities,
make sure your eyes are protected from ultraviolet (UV) light with a pair of
sunglasses or goggles certified to block UVA and UVB light.
Contact lenses can also be a source of eye injuries or infection. Using dirty
or damaged lenses can lead to eye infection, scratches on the cornea (eye surface),
or other eye problems. To reduce your risk, always clean and store your lenses
as recommended by your optometrist or eye doctor. Do not share lenses or solutions,
and throw away your solutions when they reach their expiry date, or one month
after they are first opened, whichever is sooner. Don't use your lenses for
longer than recommended (i.e., if you have daily disposable lenses, don't try
to make them last for a week). If you think you might have eye damage or an
infection, or if anything else worries you, stop using the lenses and check
with your optometrist. It is a good idea to have a pair of glasses on hand in
case you need to take the lenses out.