5 tips for good eye health
- Posted on: May 15 2020
Good vision is something that we can take too easily for granted – until the aging process brings about changes to vision. A regular eye exam is one way to stay on top of the health of your eye and detect any conditions or diseases when they are at their earliest stages for treatment. Here are five other things you can do to help maintain eye health as you age.
Eat a Healthy Diet
It’s no secret that drinking plenty of water and following a diet rich in green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, oily fish and nuts provide vital vitamins and essential nutrients for optimal health. Omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc and vitamins C and E found in these foods can help prevent or delay the onset of vision problems.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise improves blood blow to the retina and optic nerve and can lower intraocular pressure. This is especially helpful for people who have glaucoma. Regular physical activity can help people with diabetes reduce their risk of diabetic retinopathy, which is one of the leading causes of vision loss.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking exposes your eyes to high levels of oxidative stress and can make you more prone to getting cataracts and other eye diseases. Ask your doctor about ways to kick the habit, including medications and smoking cessation programs.
Take a Screen Break
Using digital devices like your computer or phone for hours on end exposures your eyes to high-energy blue light that can cause eye strain, dry eyes, blurry vision and more. Take regular breaks to rest your eyes, looking away from your device. Blink frequently, and use lubricating eye drops if you have irritated, dry eyes.
Wear Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses that block 99-100% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays is one way to protect your eyes. Too much UV exposure increases your risk of getting cataracts and macular degeneration. Wear a wide-brimmed hat for even more protection when you’re out in the sun.
These are just a few tips that, when combined with regular eye exams, will help you maintain your eye health. To schedule an eye exam, contact our Everett office at (425) 259-2020.
Posted in: Eye Care
