Your eyesight is precious, so you should never take it for granted. In fact, if you do not take proper care of your eyes, you could be in danger of developing serious eye diseases, such as cataracts and glaucoma, in the future. Don't let this happen. Making some simple changes to your lifestyle can help you avoid vision problems. Here are six effective ways to maintain good vision:
Eat a Nutritious Diet
Nutritious foods don't just help you fight weight gain; they can also improve your eyesight. If you include foods that contain certain vitamins and minerals in your diet, you can reduce your chances of developing eye disease in the future. Leafy greens, for example, are especially beneficial for your eyes. Vegetables like kale and spinach contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which are effective at fighting against cataracts and macular degeneration. Other great foods for your eyes include fatty fish, whole grains, eggs, citrus fruits and nuts.
Don't Look at the Computer Screen Too Long
Many of us have jobs that require us to sit in front of a computer screen for several hours a day. Unfortunately, this is not so good for our eyes. When you force your eyes to stare at a computer screen too long, it can lead to eye strain. It's helpful to take a break every 20 minutes to look away from the computer screen for 20 seconds. This will give your eyes a much needed break and prevent dryness, irritation and other issues.
Don't Step Outside Without Your Sunglasses
The sun's strong ultraviolet rays can be just as damaging to your eyes as they are to your skin. If you frequently expose your eyes to sunlight, you can put yourself in danger of developing cataracts. A simple solution is to wear sunglasses with UV protection when you are outside. They will prevent the sun's ultraviolet rays from penetrating your eyes.
Wear Your Contact Lenses Properly
Contact lenses are convenient and can help you see much better. However, if you use them improperly, you can irritate your eyes and even damage the cornea. Be sure to clean your contact lenses after each use and wash your hands before you handle these lenses. Remember to remove your contact lenses before you go to bed and never share them with anyone else. If you experience blurry vision, pain or discharge while you are wearing contact lenses, take them out and contact your eye doctor immediately.
Use Eye Protection When Necessary
Being around certain conditions can pose dangers to your eyes. For example, if you work with hazardous chemicals at your job, it is a good idea to always put on safety eyewear to keep the harmful materials away from your eyes. If you play contact sports, like hockey or racquetball, don't forget to wear sports goggles and a helmet. If a ball comes near your face, this safety gear will protect your eyes.
Don't Skip Eye Doctor Appointments
If your eyes seem to be in good health, you might think it's not a big deal to skip an eye doctor appointment. This is a big mistake. It is important to visit your optometrist once a year, not matter what shape your eyes are in. During the exam, your eye doctor will look for signs of vision loss and might catch something that you missed. If a problem is found, your eye doctor can talk to you about all the available treatment options.
Follow these helpful tips to maintain happy and healthy eyes for years. However, if you notice any changes to your vision, contact your optometrist immediately.
