As they say, the eyes are the windows to the soul. However, if they are that important, why don’t a lot more people take good care of their eyes? Do not take your eyes for granted. Start incorporating these measures o your everyday.
Look Away from the Computer Screen Every Once in a While
For many people, their smartphones and laptops have become an extension of themselves. This is not inherently bad; so much of everyone’s lives — from work to socialization — rely on digital devices.
As a result, many experiences dry eyes. Dry eyes is a common condition that occurs when your tears cannot provide the right amount of moisture or lubrication. Aging, illnesses, medication, and medical procedures may cause dry eyes. However, it can also be caused by decreased blinking due to looking at a screen. For more serious cases, consult a doctor and look into dry eye and MGD treatment.
To prevent dry eyes, try to take frequent breaks during long tasks that involve intense visual concentration. Close your eyes for a few minutes or blink repeatedly for a few seconds. It will also help to lower or raise your computer screen to eye level so you do not have to open your eyes too widely.
Quit Your Vices
Smoking is not just bad for your lungs, it is also detrimental to your eyesight. The American Academy of Opthalmology warns that smoking might lead to age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, Grave’s disease, and cataracts. For pregnant women, smoking has been linked to increased risk of meningitis among newborn babies. Bacterial meningitis, which causes brain tissues to swell, can cause eye infection and other eye problems.
Wear Sunglasses When Heading Out
Sunglasses help protect your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV radiation) may lead to the development of cataracts and macular degeneration later on. When buying a pair of sunglasses, choose one that can block 99% to 100% of UVA (longest wavelength of UV rays) and UVB (medium wavelength of UV rays).
Wear Protective Eyewear at Work
If your job involves hazardous or airborne materials, then you must wear goggles at all times. Small and flying objects can injure your eyes and create lasting damages.
Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
Your body is a machine. For every part to continue functioning as intended, it needs fuel you get from a well-balanced diet. To keep your eye healthy, you need to incorporate important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish like salmon and tuna), lutein (egg yolk, squash), zinc (seafood), vitamin C (berries, citrus), and vitamin E (meat, poultry). A well-balanced diet will also protect you from type-2 diabetes which is the leading cause of blindness among adults.
Get Adequate Sleep
When you sleep, your body gets the chance to recuperate and get ready for the tasks ahead. When you do not get enough sleep every night (experts recommend seven to nine hours of sleep for adults), your eyes do not get to rest. You may experience problems like dry eye, eye strain, and eye spasms. Lack of sleep has also been linked to glaucoma among people who are over the age of 40.
To take care of your eyesight, you only need to be mindful of your actions and how it will affect your overall well-being. If you experience any eye problem that does not go away, immediately consult a doctor.
