We use our eyes for almost any activity. Yet we often overlook its importance until we feel something wrong. Like in most health issues, the old adage still applies to eye care: prevention is better than the cure. Here are some things to observe to keep your eyes healthy.

  1. Wear sunglasses when you’re going out or use safety eyewear when necessary

 

Wearing shades will protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Choose the right sunglasses that have real UVA and UVB protection. If you often drive, use polarized lenses to minimize the glare.

 

Use of protective eyewear such as goggles and eye guards will prevent injuries when you’re doing sports or other activities at home or work.

 

  1. Eat healthy food and don’t forget to exercise

 

Maintaining your weight will help keep diabetes away. Diabetes is one of the causes of eye diseases. Eat healthy food that are good for your eyes such as fruits and vegetables.

 

  1. Early intervention of eye problems

 

Knowing your family history will help you anticipate future problems. Some eye diseases are hereditary. It will also be helpful to check if family members have diabetes so you can go for check-ups when necessary. Diabetic eye diseases can be bothersome. Some vision problems and age-related problems don’t come with warning signs. It is best to go to an ophthalmologist for a check-up.

 

  1. Avoid eye fatigue when staring at the screen or monitor too long

 

We rely on computers and gadgets at school, work and even at home. Give your eyes a few minutes of rest. Get enough sleep everyday. Eye fatigue can decrease your productivity and may even lead to serious problems.

  1. Take care of your contact lenses and wash your hands properly

 

Take your contacts off at the end of the day. Keeping them on for longer than necessary could cause problems like infection. Take note of the do’s and don’ts of using contacts. Avoid contamination by keeping your lenses clean. Wash your hands if you need to put them on or take them off. Make sure also to use only prescribed contact lenses. Ask your doctor about it.

 

  1. If you’re already using prescription glasses, make sure they are up-to-date and fit you perfectly

 

Ask your doctor about the different types of lenses available especially if your work involves staring at the computer screen for hours. There are also lenses that change color when you’re exposed to bright lights.

 

  1. Use eye drops when necessary

 

Read the instructions on the label carefully. Drops like allergen-reducing eye drops should not be used frequently.

 

  1. Don’t smoke

 

It’s bad for your health overall. If you have never tried smoking, don’t start.