As winter break approaches, college students will be heading home for the holidays. This is a perfect time for parents to check in and ensure their independent kids are taking proper care of their eye health. Vision plays a key role in academic success as well as extracurricular activities. College students, in particular, are prone to eye injuries, infections, and an increase in nearsightedness. Here are 7 tips for students to keep their eyes healthy and their vision in check during the semester.
1. Wash Your Hands Frequently
College dorms and crowded classrooms can be breeding grounds for germs, and eye infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye) are common. To reduce the risk of eye infections, wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water. It’s also crucial to avoid touching your eyes, as this can transfer germs and bacteria that cause irritation or infection.
2. Take Care of Your Contact Lenses
With busy college schedules, it’s easy to neglect contact lens care, but don’t! Improper contact lens hygiene can lead to eye injuries, dryness, irritation, and even serious infections. Follow your eye doctor instructions carefully. Always disinfect your lenses, avoid sleeping in them unless approved for extended wear, and never swim or shower with them in. Additionally, never use anything other than contact lens solution for cleaning and storing your lenses. If you experience discomfort or irritation, schedule an eye exam to ensure there’s no damage to your eyes.
3. Take a Break from Screens
Long hours of studying or working on a computer can take a toll on your eyes, especially with the added strain of blue light emitted by digital devices. This can lead to computer vision syndrome—symptoms include blurred vision, headaches, and neck and shoulder pain. To reduce the strain, apply the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. If you spend hours in front of a screen, consider investing in computer glasses that reduce the impact of blue light on your eyesight.
4. Get Outside Regularly
Research shows that more than 50% of college graduates are nearsighted, and the condition tends to worsen over time. However, studies also suggest that spending time outdoors can help protect your vision. Whether it’s a walk across campus or a weekend hike, getting outside regularly can help maintain eye health and prevent further eyesight issues.
5. Handle Eye Makeup with Care
Eye makeup—particularly liquid or creamy products—can harbor bacteria that lead to eye infections. Never share makeup with others, and if you develop an eye infection, throw away your eye makeup immediately to prevent reinfection. A good rule of thumb is to replace all eye makeup every three months to avoid buildup and contamination. Taking care of your eye makeup can help avoid unnecessary irritation and maintain eye safety.
6. Use Eye Protection for Sports
If sports are part of your college experience, ensure you’re protecting your eyes with the right safety gear. Whether you’re playing basketball, soccer, or doing other physical activities, eye protection safety is crucial. Wear polycarbonate or trivex lenses for sports glasses or use appropriate goggles for activities like swimming or skiing to prevent eye injuries from trauma or debris.
7. Get a Yearly Eye Exam
Regular eye exams are essential, especially if you notice any changes in your vision. College students commonly experience a decline in their eyesight, which can impact both academic performance and daily life. Eye exams ensure your vision is at its best, and your eye doctor can check for any underlying conditions, such as cataracts or glaucoma. If you wear contact lenses or eyeglasses, an exam will also ensure that your prescription is up to date.
Time for an Eye Exam Before Heading Back to School
Winter break is a great time to schedule a children eye exam or check-up for college students. It’s an excellent opportunity to get a new pair of eyeglasses or update your contact lens prescription, so you’re ready for the next semester.
Don’t wait until vision issues arise. Schedule your eye exam today to ensure healthy vision and eye safety all year long.