The modern world is full of things that can negatively impact the quality of your eyesight.
These include the increased use of electronic devices, exposure to pollutants, allergens and germs, the use of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, and more.
If it seems like your eyesight is failing you, don’t fret, at least not right away. There are ways to protect, and maybe even fix, your vision issues. Here are six measures we like for the average (and above average) person.
1. Be Careful What Touches Your Eyes
Question: What do smoking, sitting in the sun, rubbing sunscreen in your eyes, swimming in a chlorinated pool, and wearing eye makeup all have in common? They can harm your vision!
Do your best to prevent harmful agents from getting in your eyes. Also, avoid exposure to excessive ultraviolet rays – especially near bodies of water.
2. Don’t Rub Them!
No matter how itchy your eyes are, rubbing can only do more damage. This is especially true if one of your corneas get scratched in the process, which can lead to other complications.
Rubbing the eyes with your hands can also transfer germs from your skin to your eyes. Keep your hands away from your eyes. Instead, flush them with clean water, or close them and let your tears take care of the problem.
3. Use The Right Eye Drops
Eye drops can be good for your eyes, but only if you use the right type.
Eyes that stay lubricated tend to be healthier than those that are always starving for moisture. When your eyes cannot produce enough, eye drops can help.
Look for a brand that doesn’t have any preservatives. Find a type that is “just like real tears”.
4. Limit Use of Technology
That’s right, all those illuminated screens in your life can affect your vision! Long hours of staring at a computer or smartphone can lead to fatigue and eye strain.
To prevent this, be sure to look away from the screen periodically, focusing your eyes on something in the distance. You also may want to try limiting the time you spend on your devices. The real world around you awaits!
5. Eat The Right Foods
A healthy diet can help considerably, especially one rich in vitamins and minerals. In particular, vitamins C, A, and E can all help your vision. Eat foods like leafy greens and those with Omega 3 fatty acids, such as nuts and seeds.
Zinc can also prevent certain eye diseases, such as macular degeneration, but not too much (there are new formulas for Mac-D containing lower levels of zinc – ask your eye care pro).
6. Limit Use of Medications
Warning! Certain medications can hurt your eyes. Whenever a doctor gives you a scrip, make sure it won’t affect your vision before you take it.
If poor vision is listed as a side effect, ask your doctor to possibly prescribe something else, especially if you might be particularly susceptible.