Taking care of our eyes is just as important as the rest of our bodies.
Follow these top tips from Vision Matters on how to ensure your eyes are
kept healthy, sparkling and bright
Regular check ups
Get your eyes tested every two years even if you think your vision is
fine. Some eye conditions, for example open angle glaucoma, may not
show symptoms and so regular check-ups are vital.
Quit the habit
If you smoke, you have another good reason to kick the habit. Smoking
is directly linked to blindness. Current smokers are four times more
likely to develop macular degeneration compared to past smokers or
non-smokers.
It’s all relative
Talk to your relatives about your family eye health history as some
eye conditions have genetic links such as glaucoma or squint. It is
important that you share this information with your optometrist or eye
health professional.
Contact care
If you wear contact lenses make sure you look after them properly.
Thoroughly wash your hands before touching your contact lenses or your
eyes and only ever clean your contacts using the contact lens solution
recommended by your optometrist. Never shower, sleep or swim with your
contacts lenses in because this can put you at risk of developing a
serious eye infection which could lead to blindness. Also, don't wear
them for longer periods than those recommended by your optometrist.
Be cool in the sun
Protect your eyes when it is sunny or when you’re in high glare areas
such as near snow or water. Cumulative UV exposure can increase your
risk of developing cataracts or macular degeneration. When choosing
sunglasses make sure that they are safe as well as stylish! Look out
for the CE or BS EN 1836:2005 marks – this ensures that they provide a
safe level of protection from the sun’s damaging UVA and UVB rays.
Protect your eyes
If you work with hazardous or airborne materials at work or home wear
safety glasses or protective goggles to protect your eyes from injury.
Keep fit and healthy
Regular exercise is essential to stay fit and healthy but it is also
important that when playing sports such as squash that you wear
protective eye wear such as helmets or sports goggles to protect your
eyes from a flying ball.
Eat well
Protecting your eyes starts with the food you eat. Studies have shown
that nutrients in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and vitamins C and E may
help to prevent age-related vision problems such as macular degeneration
and cataracts. Recommended foods include green leafy vegetables and
oily fish such as salmon and citrus fruits.
