Healthy Eye Care Habits
Having healthy eyes can sometimes come down to smarter choices. There are a few simple, yet critical ways you can protect your sight, from having regular exams to dietary changes.
In some cases, injury or illness play a role. Family history can also be a direct indicator of problems ahead. Absent those outside influences, however, you can go a long way toward healthier eyes by following these helpful tips.
REGULAR EXAMS
It’s easy to take eye health for granted. It’s also not uncommon for small but worrisome changes to go virtually unnoticed with our sight. That’s why it’s so important to schedule regular comprehensive eye exams with an eye care professional. Some eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, don’t have any warning signs. A dilated exam is the only way to diagnose these issues in the critical early stages. Tests will also help make sure that glasses aren’t needed or if you should change your prescription strength.
EATING RIGHT
Diets rich in dark, leafy greens like spinach, collard greens or kale have been shown to improve eye health, according to researchers. There are also benefits in eating fish that boast higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, like tuna, salmon and halibut. Being overweight is also a risk factor in failing eye sight, because it increases your risk of developing diabetes or diabetic eye disease. Consult a physician if you need more guidance on creating a meal plan that bolsters eye health.
PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR
Safety glasses, shields, goggles and eye guards are critical for those who participate in certain sports, jobs involving machinery and activities like yard work where material might fly into our eyes. Most of these protective lenses are now made of polycarbonate, which is some 10 times stronger than conventional plastics. You can find this safety equipment at sporting goods and outdoors stores, or at your local eye care office. Sunglasses are also important in protecting your eyes from day-to-day exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. Look for glasses that specifically block UV-A and UV-B radiation.
STOP SMOKING
If you haven’t started smoking, don’t start. If you already smoke, be aware that the risks aren’t limited to your lungs. Smoking has been linked to increasing instances of cataracts, macular degeneration and optic-nerve damage. All of these issues can lead to blindness.