If you are noticing your eyesight is going downhill, you are not the only one. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 6 million Americans have some form of vision impairment.
But why? What causes eyesight to deteriorate so rapidly for young adults?
Take a look at the most common reasons for your eyesight getting worse in 20s. Read on!
Genetics
Genetics significantly influences your eye health. If close relatives have vision problems you may be genetically predisposed to develop similar conditions. This includes myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
These hereditary factors can affect your eye’s shape and structure. This makes you more susceptible to specific eye problems.
However, it’s important to note that lifestyle and environmental factors also play a role. Regular check-ups with an eye doctor can help monitor and address genetic predispositions for better eye health.
Increased Screen Time
Excessive screen time is a common issue in the digital era. It can lead to digital eye strain. Prolonged use of devices like computers and smartphones can cause eye fatigue, dryness, blurred vision, and even worsen myopia.
To reduce these effects, take regular breaks, you can follow the 20-20-20 rule. This means every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. You can also use blue light-blocking glasses. And if screen-related eye discomfort persists, consult a doctor.
Refractive Errors
Refractive errors can also be a reason for your eyesight getting worse in 20s. This includes myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. These conditions result from irregularities in how your eye bends light onto the retina. This leads to blurry vision at different distances.
Regular eye exams are essential for early detection. An eye doctor can advise getting glasses or contact lenses to correct these issues and ensure clear vision.
Poor Lifestyle Choices
Poor lifestyle choices can harm your eye health in your 20s. This includes unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and smoking. These choices can increase the risk of conditions like obesity and diabetes.
Unhealthy lifestyle choices can also cause eye diseases. This includes age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. To protect your vision, prioritize a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoid smoking
Contact Lens Misuse
Misusing contact lenses can have serious consequences for your eye health. Neglecting proper hygiene, wearing them too long, or not cleaning and storing them correctly can lead to many eye problems.
Improper use of contact lenses can cause painful eye infections, corneal ulcers, and irritation. To prevent these issues and ensure comfort and safety, it’s important to follow your eye doctor’s instructions for contact lens use and care.
Learn About the Reasons for Eyesight Getting Worse in 20s
Eye health is not to be taken for granted. With a proper understanding of the potential causes for eyesight getting worse in 20s and preventative measures, we can take control of our eyesight and ensure a healthy future.
Remember to visit an optometrist regularly and incorporate healthy habits. Take care of your eyes today for a brighter tomorrow. Don’t wait any longer, schedule an eye exam and take charge of your eye health today!
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