Health

For Your Eyes Only

2019-05-02 10:35:50.0

Don’t take your eyes for granted. Here are 6 steps to take care of your eyes:

1. Eat Well

Eat healthy foods with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E might help ward off age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts. Be sure to eat the following

a. Green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and collards b. Salmon, tuna, and other oily fish
c. Eggs, nuts, beans, and other nonmeat protein sources
d. Oranges and other citrus fruits or juices
e. Oysters and pork A well-balanced diet will keep your weight in check and lowers your chance of obesity and related diseases like type 2 diabetes, which is the leading cause of blindness in adults.

2. Quit Smoking It can cause cataracts, damage to your optic nerve, and macular degeneration, among many other medical problems.

3. Wear Sunglasses The right pair of shades will help protect your eyes from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Too much UV exposure will increase the chance of cataracts and macular degeneration. Always opt for 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound lenses help protect your eyes from the side. Polarized lenses reduce glare while you drive.

4. Use Safety Eyewear If you use hazardous or airborne materials on the job or at home, wear safety glasses or protective goggles.

5. Have a break from looking at your Computer Screen

Staring at a computer or phone screen for too long can cause

a. Eyestrain
b. Blurry vision
c. Trouble focusing at a distance
d. Dry eyes
e. Headaches
f. Neck, back, and shoulder pain

To protect your eyes:

a. Make sure your glasses or contacts prescription is up to date and good for looking at a computer screen.
b. Move the screen so your eyes are level with the top of the monitor.
c. Try to avoid glare from windows and lights. Use an anti-glare screen if needed.
d. Choose a comfortable, supportive chair.
e. If your eyes are dry, blink more.
f. Rest your eyes every 20 minutes. Look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Get up at least every 2 hours and take a 15-minute break.

6. Have a Regular check-up with your Doctor There are two types of doctor; Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye care. They provide general eye care, treat diseases and perform surgery. While Optometrists measure and refract eyeglasses, they don’t operate.

Always have comprehensive eye exam like vision test to rule out any diseases and eye problems.