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Though most minor vision loss or impairment is caused by refractive error, some can be prevented with proper eye care. Though not guaranteed to protect your vision forever, following a few general guidelines can keep your eyes in the best condition possible. Below, the optometrists at Wing Eyecare in Cincinnati, OH, suggest some basic do’s and don’ts to protect your eyes from unnecessary harm.

Do:

Take breaks from your screens.

Unbroken concentration on computer screens or other devices can contribute to eyestrain, headaches, dry eyes, and blurry vision. Take a break every 20 minutes. Make sure your computer is out of direct sunlight or other glare, and check that your prescription glasses are up to date.

Wear sunglasses.

Taking care of your eyes includes sun protection. The sun can contribute to cataracts and macular degeneration. Sunglasses should block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays. Consider prescription sunglasses if you wear corrective lenses.

Eat for your eyes.

eye careGood eye care begins with what you eat. Beta-carotene, the main constituent in carrots that helps vision, contributes to the functioning of the retina. Other foods, like leafy greens, help eyes as they contain antioxidants that may slow cataract growth and macular degeneration. Berries, citrus fruits, legumes, and fatty fish are other foods that may mitigate more serious eye issues, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.  Plus, a good diet helps prevent Type 2 diabetes, which is a leading cause of blindness in adults in the United States.

Regularly visit your eye doctor.

Annual eye exams can detect more serious eye or vision issues early, and help prevent long-term vision loss. Glaucoma doesn’t have many early warning signs, but traces can be detected by an exam, which allows for sooner intervention. Regularly updating prescriptions also helps prevent eyestrain and headaches.

Don’t:

Smoke.

Besides contributing to a whole host of health concerns, smoking impacts eye health as well. Studies have shown that smoking heightens the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

Ignore chronic health conditions.

Managing your diabetes or other health conditions should be part of your eye care routine. High blood pressure and chronic inflammation can contribute to vision loss if not properly attended to with medication and diet.

Expose your eyes to chemicals.

When working with chemicals or other potentially damaging objects such as metal or wood shards, wear protective glasses. Safety glasses or goggles should be made of polycarbonate and wrap around the head to prevent debris from hitting your eyes from the side.

There are many easy ways to practice good eye care, which will protect your vision as you age. For more tips, visit the optometrists at Wing Eyecare. Their team has been serving the Cincinnati area since 1914. They provide a variety of exams and screenings to clients throughout southwest Ohio and Kentucky. Visit the website to learn more about their services, or call (888) 274-9464 to schedule an appointment today.

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