5 Ways You Can Take Care of Your Eyes

March is National Workplace Eye Wellness month, which is a great reminder that your eyesight is something you should never take for granted. The best way to take care of your eyes is by being proactive because if you wait until you find a problem it is often too late. Listed below are five ways you can begin taking better care of your eyes:

1.     Get regular eye exams

Most people have a habit of forgetting to schedule yearly eye exams and they only schedule appointments when they are worried something is wrong. Comprehensive eye exams can detect many eye diseases before they affect your vision, and having regular check-ups is one of the best ways to protect your long-term eye health. If you have conditions such as diabetes or a family history of eye disease, your eye doctor may recommend more frequent visits.

2.     Follow the 20-20-20 rule

Many of us spend hours each day looking at computers, tablets, and phones. While screens don’t permanently damage your eyes, they can cause digital eye strain, leading to tired eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes. To give your eyes a break, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Remembering to blink more often and adjusting your screen brightness can also help keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day.

3.     Wear protective eyewear

Protecting your eyes isn’t just about preventing injuries… It’s also about shielding them from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays can help reduce your risk of cataracts and other eye conditions caused by long-term UV exposure. Learn more about common misconceptions regarding UV eye protection before choosing your next pair of sunglasses.

4.     Don’t smoke

We all know smoking is bad for our lungs, but did you know smoking is bad for your vision too? Numerous studies have shown that smokers are at greater risk of developing cataracts and other vision problems.

5.     Eat a healthy diet

The foods you eat can have a lasting impact on your eye health. A diet rich in leafy green vegetables, avocados, colorful fruits, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, nuts, and whole grains provides nutrients that support healthy vision. Eating well may also help reduce your risk of certain age-related eye conditions while benefiting your overall health.

Whether it’s time for your annual eye exam or you have concerns about your vision, the experienced ophthalmologists at Washington Eye Physicians and Surgeons are here to help. Schedule an appointment today to protect your vision and keep your eyes healthy for years to come.