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Vision Tips For A Better Night’s Sleep

We all have a nightly routine. But what we may not realize is that some of our bedtime habits could be harming our eyes and overall health.

Here’s a few helpful tips to help you get some better shut-eye: Take Your Contacts Out Before Going To Sleep We know that after a long day it can be hard to take your contacts out, but you should never skip this step! Nearly one million Americans visit the eye doctor each year with infections related to exercising improper contact lens hygiene. Because contact lenses rest directly on the eye, they decrease the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes from the environment. When left on longer than recommended, they deprive our eyes of much needed oxygen.

This can lead to infection, inflammation, abrasions, and even permanent damage. So do your eyes a favor and be sure to remove your contacts before going to bed at night! Steer Clear Of Your Smartphone Right Before Bed You may not know it, but your smartphone may be throwing off your sleep cycle. Light is an important natural cue that tells our bodies when to wake and when to sleep. Smartphones, TVs, laptops, and the like emit what is called blue light—a form of light emitted by the sun. So, when you’re scrolling through your phone while in bed, your brain reacts as it would to sunlight. This causes your body to stop producing melatonin, an important hormone that regulates sleep cycles. Thus, inappropriately timed exposure to blue light can lead to insomnia.

Get Enough Quality Shut-Eye Getting enough sleep should be a top priority. Sleep deprivation can cause red, bloodshot eyes, dark circles, eye twitching, dry eyes, and blurry vision. Not only is lack of sleep bad for your eyes, but it’s also extremely detrimental to your overall health. Chronic lack of sleep can increase your risk of many long term health issues such as:

• Weight gain
• Depression
• High blood pressure
• Heart failure
• Stroke
• Accident-related injury
• Poor quality of life

Studies even show an increased mortality risk for those reporting less than six or seven hours per night. So the next time you hit the hay, you can feel good knowing how important it is for your health! Your Health Is Important To Us As your trusted vision care providers, we make your health our priority! We know that sleep sometimes takes a back seat to the hustle and bustle of our day-to-day lives, but don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. Now go get some rest. You deserve it. Thank you for being a valued patient and friend!

Please watch the attached video:

Top Ten List to Keep your Eyes Healthy

1. Have regular dilated eye exams
2. Check your vision in each eye regularly especially if you have an eye disease. Contact your eye doctor and soon as you notice any problems.
3. Know your risk factors and family history for eye disease
4. Avoid eye injury by wearing safety eyewear when appropriate
5. Minimize UV exposure by limiting exposure and using UV absorbing lenses and wearing a hat.
6. Follow your contact lens care and replacement schedule.
7. Don’t smoke and avoid second hand smoke.
8. Don’t abuse alcohol or drugs.
9. Be alert for symptoms of diabetes and if you already have diabetes keep your sugars in control.
10. Lead a “Heart Healthy” life, minimize fats and cholesterol, exercise and eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Use vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by your doctor.

 

FAQ’S (Frequently Asked Questions)

How often do I need my eyes examined?

• Healthy adults with no eye disease or high risk factors should have their eyes evaluated every 2-3 years. School ages children, seniors, and those with eye diseases or at risk for eye disease need more frequent evaluations.

When should I have my child’s first eye exam?

-The American Optometric Association and Prevent Blindness recommend a complete eye exam for all children before entering school. Infants and toddles should be evaluated for signs of cataracts, lazy eye and other problems affecting their vision.

Won’t I know if I have an eye disease or problem?

– No, many eye diseases like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy do not give visual symptoms until they are severe.

Why do I need to use those eye drops?

• The eye drops give us the most thorough and accurate means to evaluate your eye health.

How often do I need my contact lenses checked?

• Contact lenses are FDA medical devices and can cause problems that can affect the health of your cornea and your ability to see well. All contact lenses need to be evaluated periodically. Our office recommends every 6 months for successful first time wears. Over night wearers and problematic patients need more frequent checks. Nebraska law requires a yearly evaluation to keep your contacts prescription current.

What can I do to protect my vision from an eye injury?

• Eye injuries are the most common reason for vision loss in children and young adults. Identify potential eye safety concerns in your work, sport, and home environment, and use appropriate safety eye wear.

Am I a good candidate for refractive surgery?

• There are many factors to weigh in considering elective procedures like refractive surgery. After a complete eye exam, your eye doctor can discuss the various refractive procedures and their benefit/ risks and which would be best for you.

How can I make my eye exam better?

– Report all of your problems and concerns and know your medications and medical history. Also, present all of your insurance plans prior and understand the coverage.