Eye Care Tips Everyone Should Know

While people know that exercise, a good diet, and sleep are essential for good health, they may not realize that eye care is equally important. Proper eye care habits can prevent most eye problems. Here are eight tips to help keep the eyes healthy so one’s vision stays sharp.

Try Not to Rub the Eyes

It’s easy for dirt, dust, and bacteria to get on a person’s hands and then be transferred to their eyes when they touch or rub them. To avoid infection and irritation, keep the hands away from the eyes. One should wash their hands regularly to keep bacteria away from their eyes, glasses, and contact lenses.

Protect the Eyes from Sunlight

Exposure to sunlight and UV rays can increase one’s risk for age-related macular degeneration and cause cornea sunburn. So aside from adding drama to one’s look, putting on those sunglasses can also protect the eyes. If one dislikes sunglasses, consider wearing UV-protected eyeglasses or contact lenses. Hats and caps are also a good idea.

Drink Enough Water

Drinking plenty of fluids is essential to the body’s overall health, including the eyes. When one does not stay hydrated, one’s eyes might become dry or irritated.

Quit Smoking

Smoking increases one’s risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye conditions. Also, it can cause damage to the optic nerves, which may lead to vision problems in the long run.

Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods that Improve Eye Health

To maintain eye health, eat foods rich in beta-carotene, lutein, omega-3 fatty acids, lycopene, and vitamins C, A, and E.

Maintain a Safe Distance from Screens and Keep the Room Lit

To avoid eye strain, ensure one’s computer monitor is positioned 20 degrees below eye level—about an arm’s length away. It’s also essential to have enough lighting in the room, but don’t use too many or extremely bright lights.

Choose Eye Makeup Carefully

When shopping for makeup, avoid any products that can irritate one’s eyes. Invest in good makeup brands and clean eye brushes regularly. Always use a makeup remover before bed to prevent bacterial build-up around one’s eyes.

Wear Appropriate Eye Protection when Engaging in Certain Activities

Wear goggles when swimming to protect one’s eyes from chlorine. When gardening or doing DIY projects at home, put on safety glasses to protect one’s eyes from bacteria, dust particles, and injury.