March is Save Your Vision Month—a perfect time to focus on maintaining and enhancing our eye health. Our eyes are our windows to the world, and keeping them in top shape is essential. Here are some tips to help you preserve your vision:
1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Regular comprehensive eye exams are crucial for early detection of eye diseases and maintaining overall eye health. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults get a baseline eye exam at age 40, with follow-ups as advised by your eye care professional.
2. Embrace the 20-20-20 Rule
Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain. To combat this, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice can reduce eye fatigue and improve comfort.
3. Wear Sunglasses Year-Round
Protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays by wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB radiation, even on cloudy days. This can help prevent cataracts and other eye conditions.
4. Maintain a Balanced Diet
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains benefits the entire body, including the eyes. Incorporate leafy greens, colorful fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids to support optimal eye health.
5. Practice Good Hygiene with Contact Lenses
If you wear contact lenses, follow proper hygiene practices to reduce the risk of eye infections. This includes washing your hands before handling lenses and following your eye care provider’s recommendations.
6. Stay Active
Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of developing eye diseases like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Exercise improves blood circulation, which is beneficial for eye health.
7. Avoid Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and optic nerve damage. Quitting smoking benefits your eyes and overall health.
8. Ensure Proper Lighting
Reading or working in well-lit areas reduces eye strain. Adjust your environment to ensure adequate lighting, especially when using digital devices.
9. Use Protective Eyewear
Whether at work or during recreational activities, wearing appropriate protective eyewear can prevent eye injuries. This is especially important in environments with potential hazards.
As ophthalmologists, we care for complex ocular trauma following vision-threatening injuries. Save Your Vision Month is an important reminder of the value of protective eyewear, especially in high-risk activities! Wearing shatterproof safety goggles during yard work, carpentry, and contact sports is a precaution that can go a long way in preserving your sight.
Mary Grace Reeves, MD, MBA
10. Good Makeup Hygiene
Never share makeup, doing so can spread harmful bacteria and lead to eye infections. Make it a habit to replace your eye makeup every three months, as old products can harbor germs that put your eyes at risk. When applying eyeliner, always do so outside the lash line rather than too close to your eye to reduce the chance of irritation or contamination. Make sure to thoroughly remove all makeup before going to bed to prevent eye irritation and maintain healthy skin.
By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can take proactive steps to preserve your vision and enjoy a lifetime of clear sight. Remember, your eyes are invaluable—treat them with the care they deserve!