Try our 7 easy ways to improve your eye health

Get New Sunglasses

The sun’s rays can damage the lenses of your sunglasses over time, meaning they gradually allow more UV light through and provide less protection for your eyes. This can harm your sight. Prolonged UV exposure can also damage the part of the retina responsible for the majority of vision, so buy new sunglasses every two years.

Soothing Treatment

You can ease the irritation of tired, dry eyes by using a warm compress to soften the natural oils and help them lubricate your eyes. Try soaking a clean cloth in warm, previously boiled water, and place it over your eyes for 15 minutes, or use the Eye Doctor (£19.95 from Boots), which can be warmed in the microwave before use – just follow the instructions carefully.

Visit The Optician

Don’t kid yourself you can get by with reading specs from the local filling station. A proper eye check is the only way to detect early signs of a condition called glaucoma, the biggest avoidable cause of sight loss in the UK.

Blink More

If your eyes feel scratchy, take a break from reading or the computer screen and close them for 10 seconds at a time.

“Blinking resurfaces the eye with fresh tears,” Dr Nigel Best, Specsavers clinical optometrist, says.

Work Those Eyes

Natural health specialists claim you might be able to preserve your vision for longer if you perform regular daily eye exercises. Try rolling your eyes from side to side and rapidly switching focus from near to far to exercise the eye muscles.

Ask The Family

Many eye diseases tend to cluster in families, so it’s vital to know your family history. At the next get-together ask about glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. They’re more easily treated if caught early.

Eat More Fish

The omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, mackerel and herring) are great for eye health, and studies suggest good amounts of omega-3 can boost the quality of your tear film, which can help reduce inflammation associated with middleaged dry eyes.