Do you feel like you just can't see things as clearly as you used to?
You may not even realize it, but basic everyday habits could be jeopardizing your eyesight.
Here are five daily habits that may be affecting your eyesight:
Excessive screen time
Screens are literally everywhere -- televisions, computers, smartphones, tablets. They're almost impossible to avoid, but you can limit the time you spend looking at them. The American Optometric Association recommends the 20/20/20 rule: look away from the screen every 20 minutes, focus on an object at least 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds.
Smoking extensively
When you smoke cigarettes, you can damage important parts of your eyes necessary for maintaining clear eyesight and vision. According to the Food and Drug Administration, this damage can make your vision cloudy, reduce your field of vision, or even cause you to lose your eyesight completely.
Not regulating other health conditions
Chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity can all impact your eyesight. Staying on top of those conditions and trying to keep your health in the best shape possible gives your eyes the best chance of staying healthy, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Not getting enough sleep or exercise
Your eyes heal themselves as you sleep, and not getting enough sleep can lead to having dry, itchy, or bloodshot eyes. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, your eyes may produce less tears after a night of insufficient sleep, which could lead to eye infections. You could also experience eye twitches or spasms when you haven't had enough sleep, your eyes may even be more sensitive to light, or you may have blurry vision.
Not staying hydrated
If your body is dehydrated, so are your eyes, which can affect both visual function and comfort. Without proper lubrication -- tears -- the surface of your eyes could have irritation and breakdown, which can result in blurry vision and discomfort, according to Healthline.
If you find one or more of the above applies to you -- don't worry. Experts say there are ways to improve your eyesight:
• Consume nutritious foods
• Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly
• Inquire about any genetic disorders
• Wear sunglasses
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