“Na Small Thing” Habits That Damage the Eyes
In Nigeria, we dey quick say “na small thing” — until that small thing grows into a serious health issue. When it comes to our eyes, some everyday habits we don’t even think twice about are silently damaging our vision.
From rubbing your eyes with unwashed hands to buying “traffic eye drops”, many of us are guilty. And truth be told, most Nigerians only realize the cost of these mistakes when they start struggling to see.
Let’s expose the common eye health mistakes we Nigerians make every single day without knowing. If you recognize yourself in any of these, it’s time to change before your sight pays the price.
1. Rubbing Eyes with Dirty Hands
You know how hot Nigerian sun can be. Dust everywhere, sweat pouring — the temptation to rub your eyes is real. But here’s the danger: your hands are carrying germs, bacteria, and dirt that can trigger infections like conjunctivitis (Apollo) or worsen irritation.
Instead of rubbing, wash your hands or use a clean tissue. Your eyes are not meant to be “handkerchiefs.”
2. Buying Random Eye Drops from the Road
We’ve all seen them — traffic vendors shouting “Original eye drop, clear red eye instantly!” The sad part? Many Nigerians buy them.
Most of these eye drops are either fake, expired, or steroid-based products that may give temporary relief but damage your eyes long term. Using the wrong drop can cause cataracts, glaucoma, or permanent blindness.
If your eyes are red or itchy, the solution is not “any eye drop.” Go for an eye test.
3. Staring at Screens for Hours without Breaks
Let’s be honest: we spend hours on phones, laptops, or TVs every single day. Whether it’s WhatsApp gist, TikTok videos, or work emails, our eyes are overworked.
Constant screen time leads to digital eye strain — causing headaches, blurry vision, dry eyes, and even sleep problems. But most Nigerians don’t know there’s something called the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Simple trick, big relief.
4. Using Sunglasses as Fashion Only
Many of us rock shades just for “levels.” But do you know not all sunglasses protect your eyes? The fake ones from Lagos traffic or roadside stalls may even harm your vision because they make your pupils dilate but don’t block UV rays.
Long-term exposure to UV light without protection increases your risk of cataracts and other eye diseases. Always check that your shades have UV protection — not just style.
5. Ignoring Annual Eye Tests
This is the number one Nigerian wahala. We wait until vision becomes blur before we see a doctor. Meanwhile, many dangerous eye diseases like glaucoma show no symptoms in the early stages.
Skipping eye tests is like refusing to check your car engine because “the car is still moving.” One day, the engine knocks — same with your eyes.
6. Sleeping with Makeup On
This one is for the ladies (and some of the men too these days). Sleeping with eyeliner, mascara, or fake lashes can block the oil glands around your eyes, leading to infections and irritations.
It might feel stressful to clean up at night, but trust me — it’s easier than treating eye infections.
7. Using Salt Water or Spit to “Wash Eyes”
Yes, people still do this. Salt water, spit, urine, or concoctions are NOT cures for eye issues. These home remedies only increase your chances of severe infections.
Your eyes are delicate organs, not experimental bowls. Stop trying risky methods.
Why Nigerians Keep Making These Mistakes
It’s simple:
Ignorance: Many don’t know the long-term damage.
Cost: People fear eye tests are too expensive.
Convenience: Buying drops from the road feels faster than going to a clinic.
Myths: “Grandma said spit cures Apollo.”
But here’s the truth — eye blindness is more costly than any test or consultation.
The Better Way Forward
Protecting your eyes doesn’t require millions:
Wash your hands before touching your eyes.
Use only prescribed eye drops.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule when on screens.
Buy real UV sunglasses.
Book regular eye tests (at least once a year).
These small, everyday habits save your vision in the long run.
Conclusion: Na Small Mistakes, Big Damage
Most eye problems Nigerians face today didn’t start big. They started with small mistakes we ignored. Don’t wait until blindness knocks on your door.
👉🏽 Stop the habits.
👉🏽 Take action today.
👉🏽 Book your eye test now at Soteria Eye Clinic.
Your sight is precious — treat it like the treasure it is.
