We worry about our wrinkles and the five extra pounds around our waist, but how many of us give much thought to our eyes? It’s great to be health-conscious, and think about how we look—but don’t forget to care for how we see. Our eyesight is precious, yet we often take it for granted.
Modern living puts a great strain on our eyes. Television, computer glare, and even conditions like diabetes that can affect our eyesight… What can we do to protect our eyes and keep them healthy?
See an ophthalmologist every 12 months
An annual check up can help detect and correct hidden vision problems. (Maybe that’s the reason you’ve been getting all those bad headaches!) Don’t just see an optometrist in an eye clinic in the mall. See an ophthalmologist.
It’s easier to fix vision problems early on. You may be given corrective glasses or lenses, which will strengthen your eye muscles and prevent further strain. If you already wear glasses or lenses, your ophthalmologist may need to correct the grade or prescribe a different type of lens.
Protect eyes from UV rays
Ultraviolet rays can also hurt the eyes! That’s why it’s important to wear high quality sunglasses that filter up to 98% of the UV radiation. This has nothing to do with the tint of the glasses, but the type of lens. While those fashionable shades look great with your outfit, if you’re outdoors it’s best to wear something that can provide substantial protection—even on overcast days. That’s because UV rays can pass through clouds.
Take the right vitamins and minerals
Take foods that are rich in antioxidants. These can help control macular degeneration and cataracts. Vitamin C, folic acid, Vilamin E and Vitamin A are also good for your vision. You’ve probably heard about how carrots help your eyesight, but so does spinach and other leafy greens, and even sardines!
Adjust your computer brightness
Read our article on preventing computer eye strain. You’ll find important tips on how to adjust the lamps and computers to protect your eyes. You can also try eye exercises that can relax your eyes.
Beware of contact lens abuse
Do you sleep in your contact lens? Wear them for days without cleaning them? Do you sterilize your contact lens case? And how often do you change your lenses? Many people will wear a set of two-week replacement lenses for a month or more, buying a new pair only when the pain and discomfort are unbearable.
So clean your contacts and change them as required. This can help prevent protein build up on the lens (which can make it difficult to see things) and other problems like eye infections from bacterial contamination. Also, rest your eyes at night, or occasionally switch to glasses (even when you’re just at home). Your eyes will feel better!
Photo from caneyesightimprove.com