Tips for Protecting your Eyes
Protecting your eyesight should be a priority from a young age. Loss or degeneration of vision can change your life and with sight-threatening eye issues affecting 1 in 6 adults over the age of 45; it’s essential you look after your eyes in every way possible.
The health of your eyes is not something that’s often talked about, but it is an important topic and one that many people can benefit from being aware of. With this in mind, we’ve put together a list of tips that will help you look after your eyes and, as far as possible, protect your sight.
Address Vision Changes Quickly
If you start to notice changes in your vision it’s best to see an eye care professional as soon as possible. Signs to watch out for are double vision, difficulty seeing in low lighting, hazy vision and the inability to focus on a specific point. Physical changes such as swelling, redness and pain should also be addressed quickly.
Protect Your Eyes From UV Rays
Sunglasses shouldn’t just be a fashion statement; they should serve a purpose and properly block out harmful UV rays from the sun. Even on overcast days, UV rays can damage your eyes and by using proper protection you can reduce the risk of pinguecula, cataracts and other eye problems.
Stay Healthy
This may be an obvious tip, but staying healthy has a positive effect on your whole body, including your eyes. Studies have shown that regular exercise can reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration by up to 70%. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet is also key to protecting your eyes, and it has been proven that antioxidants and food rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of cataracts.
Know If You Are At Risk
By being aware of your family’s medical history you should have a clearer idea as to whether or not you are at risk for certain eye diseases. High blood pressure and diabetes are two very common diseases that can affect your eyes and potentially damage your sight. If you know you are at risk, you can request regular eye exams to identify any issues early on and try your best to preserve your eyesight with an early diagnosis.
Quit Smoking
If you are a smoker it can affect far more than just your lungs. Your eyes are also at risk as people who smoke have a greater chance of developing cataracts, age related macular degeneration, uveitis, and other eye issues.
Get Your Eyes Checked Regularly
By having a comprehensive eye exam every 2 years, you can pick up in any changes to your vision. This can aid you in discovering a potential issue that may lead to a bigger problem if not addressed. During an eye exam, your pupils should be temporarily dilated and this can show up any signs of diabetic retinopathy, which usually has no other early warning signals. A regular eye exam will also determine whether your current prescription for glasses or contacts is up to date, or whether you are straining your eyes due to your prescription not being strong enough.
These eye protection tips may not guarantee you have perfect vision all your life, but by maintaining a healthy lifestyle you can decrease your risk of developing potentially preventable eye related problems. If you have any questions about eye care or want to have your eyes tested, EyeQ’s professional optometrists are always able to assist.
Why not come down to one of our stores and have a chat with us? It only takes a few minutes of your time and the advice we can offer could make your life a whole lot easier down the road.
