Our eyesight can deteriorate as we age, leading to various eye problems. However, there are steps you can take to keep your eyes healthy and functioning at their best.
Symptoms of Poor Eyesight
Poor eyesight can manifest in many ways. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
Diminished Vision: This could mean you’re having difficulty reading, seeing things in the distance, or distinguishing colors.
Dry Eyes: This occurs when your eyes aren’t producing enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly.
Cataracts: A cataract is a clouding of the lens in your eye. This can cause blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
Astigmatism: This condition causes blurry vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens.
Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.
How to Keep Your Eyes Healthy
Get Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are essential to maintaining healthy eyes. Adults should have their eyes checked every two years or more often if they have a history of eye problems or are at high risk for eye disease. Children should have their eyes checked before starting school and regularly after that.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet can help keep your eyes healthy. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Examples include leafy greens, citrus fruits, carrots, sweet potatoes, nuts, and fish.
Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
Exposure to UV radiation can damage your eyes. Wear sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays, and a wide-brimmed hat when you’re outside.
Take Breaks from Screens
Staring at a computer or phone screen for extended periods can cause eye strain, dry eyes, and blurred vision. Take breaks every 20 minutes to look away from the screen, blink, and focus on distant objects.
Practice Good Hygiene
Washing your hands regularly can help prevent eye infections. Avoid touching your eyes, and replace eye makeup regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
Quit Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems. Quitting smoking can improve your overall eye health and reduce your risk of these conditions.
When to See the Eye Doctor
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s important to see an eye doctor:
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Eye pain
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Flashes of light
- Floaters (dark spots or lines in your vision)
In addition, if you have a family history of eye disease, you should see an eye doctor regularly.
Maintaining healthy eyes is crucial for good vision and overall health. By getting regular eye exams, eating a healthy diet, protecting your eyes from the sun, taking breaks from screens, practicing good hygiene, and quitting smoking, you can help keep your eyes healthy.
If you experience any symptoms of poor eyesight, don’t hesitate to see an eye doctor. With proper care, you can maintain healthy eyesight for years to come.
