Our eyesight is an essential tool vital in completing daily tasks. As we age, our vision begins to deteriorate and we become prone to more eye diseases. According to the CDC, “93% of people in the United States are at risk for vision loss.” Here are 5 tips to maintain healthy vision:
- Maintain a healthy diet
Having good eye health starts with planning the right meals for your body. When meal prepping, nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin C, lutein, zinc and Vitamin E must be incorporated into your diet. To decrease your chances of eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts here a few foods you should buy on your weekly grocery trip:
- Leafy greens vegetables- broccoli, spinach, and kale
- Red berries
- Kiwi
- Citrus fruits- oranges, tangerines and grapefruit
- Eggs
- Beans
- Fish- salmon and tuna
- Wear protective eyewear
If you forget to wear your sunglasses in 100-degree weather, then you increase your chances of being diagnosed with cataracts or macular degeneration. UV light exposure affects the cornea and lens, which function to absorb light. Too much exposure can lead to permanent damage affecting your central vision. Next time you are in the market for shades make sure they are 100 percent UVA- and UVB-absorbent or UV 400.
- Take a break from looking at your screen
Digital eye strain can progress if you are always looking at your laptop or phone. Staring at a screen for a long period can lead to blurry vision, difficulty looking at long distances, and headaches. To prevent vision discrepancies here are some suggestions:
- Check to see if your prescription is up to date by looking at objects close and far away from you. If you have trouble seeing, schedule an appointment with your ophthalmologist.
- If you are always looking at a screen, position it so your eyes are level with the monitor.
- Perform the 20-20-20 rule. Take a break by resting your eyes every 20 minutes. Look 20 feet away from your screen for 20 seconds. Stand up and move around every few hours.
- Protect yourself with safety essentials
If you work in a lab or have a job where you have regular contact with chemicals use safety glasses or protective googles.
Being active in sports such as hockey or football can lead to eye injuries. Make sure to wear your uniform, padding and face/eye gear to ensure you are protecting your eyes from long term damage.
- Schedule your annual checkups
Attending your annual eye exam can lead to prescription changes and discovering an eye or health disease. It is imperative to attend your appointments to receive treatments and take care of your vision. Having your yearly visit may include:
- Vision exams
- Questions regarding family and medical history
- External and microscopic testing
If you have not gone to your annual checkup, Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about your vision discrepancies and the best options for you.
Source: Web MD
