No matter what the season–healthy vision should always be a priority! As we are mid-way through the year, let’s refresh and discover the top ways you can promote eye health.
Schedule a dilated eye exam.
Foremost, an annual eye exam is a must. And as a reflection of your body’s overall health, an annual dilated eye exam is the best way to protect your eyes.
Dilating your eyes enables your doctor to examine overall eye health and identify various conditions. To learn more about this type of exam, check out our blog all about The Ins and Outs of Eye Dilation.
Protect your eyes.
Spending time outdoors? We all know sunscreen is important, but don’t forget your sunglasses! The sun’s UV rays can be harsh and even contribute to eye conditions, such as cataracts and macular degeneration. When shopping for sunglasses, look for a pair that offers 100% UVA and UVB protection.
Eye protection in the workplace is also vital. To protect your eyes and promote eye health, wear protective eyewear or safety goggles. Or if you participate in a sport or a new outdoor hobby, use protective eyewear for athletic activities.
Use lubricating eye drops.
With hot temperatures and high screen times, two of the most common eye conditions are dry eyes and eye strain.
By using lubricating eye drops regularly, even when your eyes do not feel dry, you can help prevent these conditions. Look for drops that say “lubricating,” “preservative-free” or “PF.”
In addition, remember to use the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes spent looking at a screen, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Practice good eyelid hygiene.
Good eyelid hygiene is another key part of maintaining good eye health. Make cleaning your eyelids part of your daily routine to reduce irritation, inflammation, and infection.
To thoroughly clean your eyelids, use over-the-counter eyelid wipes or foam. Start by washing your hands and then use a wipe or Q-tip to clean along the upper and lower lid margin once a day.
Keep your glasses clean and take care of your contacts.
Take care of your eyeglasses or contact lenses to promote eye health this year.
For glasses, keep your lenses clean by applying an oil-free soap, rinsing them with water, and gently drying them with a microfiber cloth.
To care for your contact lenses, follow your doctor’s advice. Common tips include avoiding sleeping in, showering, or swimming while wearing your contact lenses. And don’t forget to cleanse your lenses with solution and replace them as advised.
Incorporate a healthy diet.
That’s right, eating certain foods is good for your eye health! Foods that contain essential vitamins such as A, C and E, as well as Omega-3 fatty acids, are beneficial for your eyes. Drink plenty of water and other fluids to stay hydrated and help naturally lubricate your eyes.
Summary
Focus on eye and vision health this year by following these tips. Ready to start with a comprehensive exam? Connect with your local Mississippi Eye Care clinic to book your next appointment.
Until then, continue reading our blogs for more eye care tips and vision news.
