The eyes are often the last part of the body considered when a person takes stock of their physical health. It is easy to take the gift of healthy eyes for granted when sight and clear vision just seems to be a part of everyday life. However, what happens when clear sight suddenly isn’t so clear? For many millions of people, clear vision comes with a high price and anyone who has suffered with poor vision or eye disease will be the first to strongly encourage all people do the following to protect their current good eye health:
1. Annual Eye Exams for Everyone
An optometrist should not only be sought after sight is impaired. This doctor visit is just as important as a yearly dental exam or a yearly physical. During the eye exam, an eye health professional will dilate the patient’s pupil which will allow the health professional to see deeply into the pupil and determine the presence or lack of early stages of glaucoma, diabetes, cataracts and other eye diseases.
2. Regard Your Family Eye Health History
The majority of vision problems and eye diseases are hereditary. Brushing up on your family’s history of eye health can go a long way to ensuring you take every step necessary to protect your vision and overall eye health.
3. Cleanliness is Next to Godliness for your Eyes
Wash your hands before handling your contacts. In addition, instead of rubbing itchy or tired eyes, get a clean washcloth and put a cool compress on your eyes
4. Don’t Smoke
If you are a smoker, consider this yet another reason to quit smoking: smoking has been linked to vision loss by leading studies.
5. Your Diet Affects Your Eyes
What you put into your body affects every single part of your body including, of course, your eyes. Eating lots of vitamin A, which is found in carrots, dark leafy greens and some fruits, is particularly important for maintaining eye health. If you do not eat a diet rich in fish, greens, vegetables and fruits, it is best to take a daily supplement of vitamin A and especially Omega-3 fish oil.
6. Avoid Squinting
Squinting doesn’t only cause wrinkles but it is a sign to your body that the sun is too bright for your eyes to safely function. Wear UV protected sunglasses anytime you are outside. Even overcast weather causes eyes to strain so don’t leave the house without your shades.
7. Watch Your Weight
Yes, being overweight even affects your vision. Obesity or extreme and sudden weight gain increases the likelihood of developing diabetes which leads to impaired vision.
