The eyes can accomplish amazing things. They process information using a complex mechanism that establishes a direct connection with the brain, allowing individuals to process the world around them visually. One would be surprised to know that many people don’t take eye health seriously! People who don’t think they have a vision problem seldom get routine exams with an ophthalmologist or optometrist, which can deteriorate their eye health. Here are some ways to maintain eye health:

Ways to maintain eye health
From the moment one wakes up until the moment they go to sleep, how they navigate their day and enjoy life is greatly influenced by their eyes. Following these suggestions will help one maintain the health of their eyes and safeguard their vision.

1. Defend the eyes from UV light’s harmful effects

• A condition known as photokeratitis, which resembles sunburn, can result from prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. The eyes can become swollen, irritated, and red from this, which can be extremely painful. After 6 to 12 hours of exposure, photokeratitis symptoms, which are an inflammation of the cornea’s outer layer, usually appear. However, the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation build up over time, and the risk of developing cataracts and other age-related conditions rises noticeably. It is never too early to begin eye protection.
• Always prioritize the safety of the eyes by wearing protective eyewear when necessary. Retinal detachments are one example of eye issues that can result from damage or injury to the eye. If there is a risk to the eye’s health, such as metal or wood shavings, the workplace must provide safety glasses covered with lenses.

2. Maintain proper contact lens hygiene

• Those wearing contact lenses must pay closer attention to their eye health. They should adhere to the care instructions provided by the eye doctor or optometrist for their contact lenses.
• One must wash their hands before touching their eyes, handle and store their contact lenses properly, take them out before bed, and only clean them with the recommended solution (don’t rinse them in tap water).
• Proper contact lens handling and eye hygiene are essential to prevent eye infections that could develop into severe conditions and even result in vision loss.
• Without a prescription, colored contact lenses cannot be sold. However, a few online retailers and shops continue to do that. The eyes could get cut, scratched, or contaminated by those eye lenses. Certain contacts can impair vision or even render one blind.

3. Eat healthy and wholesome foods for good vision
A balanced meal plan can lower the risk of developing common eye diseases. Many fruits and vegetables contain good eye nutrition, such as spinach, red peppers, kale, leeks, avocado, peaches, and blueberries. These nutrients may help prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in the Western world. Some of the foods for good eyesight include the following:

• All three green leafy vegetables—kale, spinach, and collards—contain lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin C, supporting eye health.

• Vitamin C, abundant in citrus fruits like lemons, grapefruits, and oranges, can lower the risk of cataract development.

• Brightly colored vegetables like bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and others have essential nutrients that support eye health.

• High levels of zinc, beneficial for an enzyme found in the eye, are present in meat, especially beef.

• Omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish like sardines, mackerel, and tuna help to protect the eyes from eye disease.

• Omega-3 fatty acids, necessary for keeping the eyes lubricated, are found in nuts and seeds, including peanuts, walnuts, lentils, sunflower, and flax seeds.

• The old wives’ tale that carrots are good for your eyes is partially true because they have high vitamin A and carotene levels, which help the retina absorb light.

4. Workout daily

• For health and comfort, the eyes require oxygen. According to mounting scientific evidence, acrobatic exercise may improve vital oxygen supplies to the optic nerve and reduce eye pressure.
• Ocular hypertension and glaucoma can both be controlled by lowering intraocular pressure. Additionally, aerobic exercise can stop the progression of diabetes, which, in more serious cases, can result in diabetic retinopathy.
• The Department of Health advises engaging in 30 minutes of exercise five days a week to reap the health benefits of exercise.
• Swimming, cycling, and brisk walking are all effective methods for lowering intraocular pressure. Before beginning any new exercise program, don’t forget to consult a doctor.

5. Visit an optometrist regularly
Even young children require routine eye exams. Furthermore, diseases like glaucoma that have no symptoms can be found during eye exams. Early detection is crucial because it makes them easier to treat.

A thorough eye examination consists of the following:

• One should discuss the medical history of their family and themselves.
• One should take a vision test to determine their nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism (a curved cornea that blurs vision), and presbyopia (age-related vision changes).
• One should take tests to determine how well their eyes cooperate. Examinations of the optic nerve and eye pressure are used to detect glaucoma. The eyes will be examined under a microscope and from the outside before and after dilation.

Attend routine eye exams to identify any issues early on, and consult with an ophthalmologist for assistance in managing current eye issues. One should eat healthy meals and wear sunglasses and eyewear to protect the eyes. By remembering these tips, one can take good care of one’s eyes and ensure the longevity of good vision.