Eating a nutrient-filled diet, working out regularly and avoiding cigarettes and alcohol are great ways to keep your body healthy. But did you know that there are things you can do specifically for your eyes?
Here are 5 tips to protect and maintain the health of your eyes.
- Sunglasses
The sun’s UV light can wreak havoc on your eyes. Without proper protection, your retina can be affected, leading to cataracts, and cumulative exposure increases the chance of macular degeneration. Even a single overexposure can cause sunburn on your cornea or the eyelids and delicate skin around the eye. Ouch! To prevent damage to your eyes, you need to wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. Add a large-brimmed hat for additional coverage. Looking for a stylish and protective pair of shades? We’ve got a great selection! Shop now. - Protective Eyewear
Eye injuries can happen quickly and often while you are doing something you have done a million times. A splash of harsh liquid while cleaning, dust or debris from household projects or repairs, pollens and thorns when you garden all can cause discomfort or damage to your eyes. Protective goggles are an easy solution designed to shield your eyes from all types of hazards. Did you know that protective eyewear can be made with your prescription? Ask your IRIS optician for more details. - Take a break
Your eyes, the human body’s fastest muscles, work overtime and need breaks throughout the day. Smartphones, tablets, computers and high-definition televisions have become fixtures in our daily lives. Whether you are working, reading or researching your next vacation, staring at a digital screen for extended periods can cause eye strain. For a simple fix, practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break from your screen and focus on something 20 feet away. Very relaxing!
- Hygiene
If you wear makeup or contact lenses, pay special attention to hygiene to ensure that no infection-causing bacteria enter the eye. Toss your mascara every 3 months and ensure to gently remove your makeup before bed every night. Always wash your hands before touching your eyes, especially when inserting and removing contact lenses. Always remove your contacts before bed, as sleeping with them increases your chances of infection. - Eye Exams
Optometrists recommend an eye exam every two years unless, of course, you have underlying issues that require more frequent visits. Through a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor can verify changes in your vision and may be able to detect signs of diseases such as hypertension. Book your appointment today!
