Easy Eye Health Tips You May Not Have Considered | Healthy Vision Month

Protecting your eyes is one of the most important things you can do for your well-being. You may know that doing certain things, such as smoking, can have an adverse impact on your eyes. Most people may also know that wearing eye protection when doing certain activities, such as using power tools, also protects your vision.

However, there may also be some small things you can do to promote healthy vision that you have not considered.

July is Healthy Vision Month. It is a reminder to take steps to keep your eyes healthy. The article below covers easy eye health tips that you may not have considered. 
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Throw away old makeup

Makeup is not usually harmful to your eyes, but if it is old or if you share eye makeup with a friend, it can spread bacteria to your eyes and lead to an eye infection. Makeup usually has an expiration date. If you do not see one on your products, a good rule is to discard eye makeup, including mascara and eyeliner, after about three months.

Also, be careful when using tools, such as an eyelash curler, around your eyes. Take your time and pay attention to what you are doing.
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Avoid rubbing your eyes

We often rub our eyes without even thinking about it. This may especially be true if you get a little particle or something in your eyes. It is a natural reflex to rub the eye, but rubbing your eyes too hard can scratch them. Also, it is possible to get bacteria in your eyes from rubbing. If your eyes are itchy often, try using eye drops or flushing them out with sterile saline. 

Drink plenty of water

Drinking enough water is important for your organ systems to work efficiently and also for eye health. Drinking plenty of water helps keep the eyes moist and lubricated. Dehydration can lead to reduced tear production and irritated eyes. 

Eat your fruits and vegetables

While eating certain foods won’t necessarily prevent all eye problems, maintaining a healthy diet is good for your eyes. Foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, provide essential nutrients for the body, including the eyes. For example, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, eating foods high in vitamin C, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids may help lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Although more research is needed to confirm the link, eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables may also help reduce the risk of cataracts.
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Take a break from screen time 

Many of us spend a good amount of time on our computers and phones. But too much screentime can lead to eyestrain. While it is not a serious threat to vision, eyestrain can lead to tired and dry eyes. Try to reduce non-essential screen time or at least take regular breaks from your digital devices. 

Get enough shuteye 

We know that lack of sleep can affect mood, memory, and concentration, but not getting enough sleep can also affect your eyes. In most cases, lack of sleep only has esthetic consequences on the eyes. For instance, as reported by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, when you do not get enough sleep, it can increase the risk of developing dark circles and puffy eyes.

However, lack of sleep may have a more significant impact on eye health. Sleep deprivation increases the risk of obesity, which can lead to type 2 diabetes and diabetic retinopathy.

We hope the above information provided you with some easy steps you can take to promote healthy eyes. If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600. 
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