As the party season gets into full swing, leading sight loss charity RNIB warns of the hidden dangers to one of our most precious senses and how we can keep eyes safe and healthy during this festive season.
According to the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), 100 people start to lose their sight every day. Yet 50 per cent of sight problems are avoidable. RNIB's Save our Sight (SOS) campaign aims to challenge unnecessary sight loss, encourage regular eye checks and promote the importance of timely access to vital treatment.
Top tips
Sonal Rughani, RNIB Optometrist and Eye Health Advisor, said:
"We can all take our health for granted especially at this time of year, but often our eyes are put through their paces without any idea of the risks to our sight."
Here are just a few important points to be aware of.
1. Avoid out of date make-up and sharing
Misusing eye cosmetics can allow dangerous bacteria or fungi to grow, risking infection which can lead to vision loss or blindness. Always wash your hands thoroughly before applying eye make-up and don't share or swap eye cosmetics - another person's germs may be hazardous to you. Eye make-up should be replaced every three months and always adhere to the use-by dates. If you develop an eye infection, immediately throw away all of your eye make-up.
2. Use eye brighteners with caution
Products known as eye brighteners or whitening eye drops constrict the blood vessels in the eye, temporarily masking redness. However after a few hours the drops will wear off, blood vessels become engorged and appear more red than before, creating a cycle of dependence, These products are not designed for regular use. It is important to have regular eye health checks with your optometrist (optician) to ensure your eyes remain healthy and 'bright' without any eye brighteners or whiteners.
In addition, eye whiteners or eye brighteners can reduce tear production, so should not be suggested for dry eye sufferers. Always read the label.
3. Clean your contact lenses properly
Only wear your own prescribed contact lenses to avoid infections. Be diligent about keeping your lenses scrupulously clean. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of your lenses is a must. Never run under the tap, use saliva or homemade solutions. You must clean your lenses every time you put them in. Contact lenses can get a build-up of micro-organisms that can build up on the lens surface causing discomfort and risk of contamination. If you experience sore or red eyes, clean your lenses in solution. If the problem persists, consult an eye care professional.
Furthermore, do not sleep in your contact lenses unless you have been prescribed extended wear, or continuous wear contact lenses by your optometrist (optician). Always keep your glasses with you in case you get into difficulty and especially if you are driving.
4. Look after your lashes
Take extra care if dyeing your eye lashes or wearing false eye lashes or lash extensions. Remember that the eyelids are delicate. Bonding agents and glues are irritants and can cause discomfort and potential eye damage in severe cases. Repeated use of eye lash extensions can cause Traction Alopecia, a condition where the hair falls out due to excessive tension placed on the hair shaft. Eye lashes play an extremely important role in keeping our eyes healthy and act as a natural defence against dust, dirt and sunlight. Always ensure you have these procedures at a salon and follow the aftercare advice carefully.
If you or someone you know has a sight problem, RNIB can help. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
About RNIB
Every day around 100 people in the UK start to lose their sight. There are around 2 million people in the UK with sight problems. RNIB is the leading charity working in the UK offering practical support, advice and information for anyone with sight difficulties. If you, or someone you know, has a sight problem RNIB can help. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk
Tips for healthy eyes
Keep your eyes healthy by following these simple steps.
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Have a regular eye test at an opticians. Early detection means more chance of successful treatment.
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Don't smoke. It greatly increases the risk of certain eye conditions.
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Eat healthily. Include lots of green leafy vegetables in your diet to maintain eye health.
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Keep trim. Obesity is linked to diabetes and AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration), so stay trim to avoid sight problems.
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Always wear sunglasses with a UV filter.