Proper eye care is an essential part of overall healthcare and wellness. Eyesight is a vital sense that contributes to most of what an individual perceives. As people age, their eyesight becomes weaker. The gradual deterioration is often unnoticed until it becomes difficult to see clearly. 

Getting regular eye exams helps ensure a reduced risk of developing ocular conditions. Early detection of eye conditions will help ensure effective treatment. Here are tips to keep your eyes healthy. 

• Eating a Healthy Diet

What you eat will affect not just your physical health but also your eye health. You can improve your ocular health by eating a healthy diet. Nutrient-rich diets with the right minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants will help improve eye health. 

Vitamins E, C, and A, essential fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and zeaxanthin can help reduce the risk of developing eye diseases. A healthy diet should include fruits, green leafy vegetables, oily fish, nuts, legumes, eggs, dairy products, and seeds.

• Avoid UV Exposure  

Prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays can lead to eye damage. The sun’s harmful rays can cause damage to the eye and the skin around the eyes. UV light can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. 

You can protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses when you are outdoors. The glasses help block the harmful rays. Make sure that you get sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat will also help shade the eyes. 

• Do Not Smoke 

Smoking is harmful to eye health. Studies have shown that smoking can increase the risk of macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye syndrome. It can also lead to optical nerve damage. The eye conditions can lead to vision loss or blindness. It is a good idea to avoid exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke.

• Use Safety Eyewear 

It is necessary to wear protective eyewear to prevent eye injuries. If you work with hazardous or airborne materials, you must ensure that you use safety goggles. Protective eyewear is vital for home repairs, crafting, or construction. You must also wear protective eyewear when playing certain sports. You can find sport-specific eyewear for your activity. 

• Limit Your Screen Time

Prolonged computer or digital device use can lead to issues such as eyestrain, dry eyes, blurry vision, and difficulty focusing. Make sure to rest your eyes frequently when working on the computer. Limit the time spent watching shows or playing games on your digital device. You can also take advantage of anti-glare screens and computer eyewear. 

• Get Regular Eye Exams 

Regular visits to the eye doctor are the best way to ensure you maintain healthy eyes. Eye exams can help detect signs of eye diseases. It is vital to realize that many eye diseases do not show symptoms in the early stages. Getting regular eye exams will help look for signs of eye conditions. Early detection and prompt treatment can help protect your eyesight. 

If you notice any changes in your vision, ensure that you contact your eye doctor as early as possible. It is also essential to ensure that your lens prescription is up to date. Change your eye makeup regularly to avoid infection. 

For more tips to keep your eyes healthy or to schedule a visit, call Today’s Vision at (949) 518-0055 to reach our Laguna Niguel, California office.