How Your Environment Affects Your Eyes
Your eyes have a natural defense system designed to protect them from harm. Your eyebrows and eyelashes help keep dust and debris out, your eyelids blink to clear away foreign particles, and your tear ducts produce a film that keeps them lubricated. However, despite these built-in protections, your eyes are still vulnerable to environmental factors that can cause irritation, dryness, or long-term damage.
Common Environmental Factors That Can Damage Your Eyes
Ultraviolet (UV) Rays
Just like UV rays from the sun can damage your skin, they can also harm your eyes over time. Prolonged exposure to UVA and UVB rays has been linked to cataracts, macular degeneration, and even eye cancer.
How to Protect Your Eyes:
- Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever you’re outdoors.
- Choose wide-brimmed hats to shield your eyes from direct sunlight.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak hours.
Environmental Pollutants
Smog, cigarette smoke, and poor air quality can cause dry, irritated eyes by disrupting your natural tear film. Indoor environments with heating and air conditioning can also dry out your eyes, making them feel gritty, itchy, or red.
How to Protect Your Eyes:
- Use a humidifier in dry environments to maintain moisture.
- Limit exposure to cigarette smoke and other airborne pollutants.
- Try artificial tears to keep your eyes hydrated and comfortable.
Excessive Screen Time
Spending too much time in front of computers, phones, and tablets can lead to digital eye strain. While screens don’t cause permanent vision damage, they can cause blurred vision, headaches, and eye fatigue.
How to Reduce Digital Eye Strain:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Blink more often to prevent dry eyes.
- Consider blue light-filtering lenses for prolonged screen use.
- Adjust screen brightness to match your surroundings.
Allergies
Pollen, dust, and pet dander can trigger allergic reactions that cause red, itchy, and watery eyes. While avoiding allergens is the best solution, it’s not always practical—especially if you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms.
How to Manage Eye Allergies:
- Wash your hands and face after being outdoors to remove allergens.
- Use anti-allergy eye drops recommended by your optometrist.
- Consider over-the-counter antihistamines, but be aware that some may cause drowsiness.
- Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons to reduce exposure.
Comprehensive Eye Care in Edmonton
If you’re experiencing eye discomfort, irritation, or vision changes, it’s always best to see an optometrist for a full evaluation. Whether you need prescription glasses, sunglasses, or treatment for dry or irritated eyes, the team at Optometrists’ Clinic, Inc. can help.
Book an appointment today at one of our five locations in the Edmonton area.
