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6 Tips to Maintain Healthy Vision

6 Tips You Can Do Right Now to Maintain Healthy Vision

#1 – Wear Sunglasses

You probably know the sun can damage your skin… but did you realize the risk the sun poses on the health of your eyes? While sunglasses are a great aesthetic accessory, protection from UV Rays is ultimately what they’re used for.
Be careful to avoid these harmful side effects from the sun:

  • Cataracts, which is when the lens of the eyes becomes cloudy, resulting in blurred vision. Approximately 20% of all cases are a result of UV exposure.
  • Macular Degeneration happens when the retina is damaged and destroys central vision. This is the leading cause of blindness.
  • Pterygium is a growth of tissue on the white part of the surface of your eye that affects the curve of your eyeball. The result is astigmatism.

When purchasing sunglasses look for something that blocks almost 100% of UVB and UVA radiation.

#2 – Quit Smoking

Did you know smoking can be harmful to your eyes? Sight -related problems are rarely discussed, so here are a few reasons that might help you kick the habit:

  • Studies show that smokers are at three times the risk for developing AMD, and female smokers aged 80 plus are over 5.5 times likely to acquire AMD than those that don’t smoke and are the same age.
  • Smoking doubles the risk of diabetes. Smoking is also a risk factor for progression of diabetic retinopathy, and hypertension.
  • Smokers show higher rates of blindness and other issues in old age.

 

#3 – Annual Eye Exams Are Necessary

Recent studies have found that 25% of adults have not had their eyes checked in the last two years. Studies also show that 25% of all people are unaware that a simple eye exam can prevent blindness. If you’ve had laser vision surgery or are naturally blessed with good vision, it is still recommended that you have regular eye exams, preferably annually (after age 40).

“Vision tests” are not the same as having a complete eye exam. A thorough eye exam performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist can detect potentially harmful diseases, vision disorders, and issues with the muscles in your eyes. If things begin to look blurry or you have trouble seeing objects far or near, this is an indication that you should have your eyes checked.

#4 – Healthy Eating for Healthy Vision

There is a strong connection between food and one’s overall health. It has become apparent that having a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals provides long-term protection for your vision. Physicians tell us, “One of the best things you can do for your eyes is to eat a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables, but also low in saturated fats and sugar.

#6 – Ensure the health of your Eyes by Washing Your Hands

The number of times you wash your hands daily can prevent the spread of infectious diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control. By washing your hands frequently, you prevent the collection of dirt and germs that may be easily transferred to the eyes. This is caused by we touch this area subconsciously throughout the day. Not only will it reduce the chances of getting sick, it also helps control the spread of bacteria and viruses that are responsible for causing as-conjunctivitis (pinkeye) as well as corneal ulcers.

A great habit to practice is washing your hands before you eat or prepare food, before you treat injuries, before using any type of dispensing machine, and before you take out or put in contact lenses. An important instance where washing your hands should be your number one priority is before you get something in your eye or eyelash.

Some quick facts to digest when it comes to the protection of your eyes via washing your hands:

  • Half of all people fail to wash their hands after sneezing or coughing.
  • Over half of all men and almost one fourth of women doesn’t wash their hands after using restroom facilities.
  • Over one third of all people don’t think it is necessary to wash their hands before a meal.
  • Left-handed people tend to wash their right hand more thoroughly than they’re left and conversely for right handed people.

 

We hope these tips help you in your quest for top-notch vision! For more information please visit our Homepage.