It is said that the eyes are the window to your soul. Don't take good vision for granted, taking care of your eyes is important.

A Healthy Diet

It all starts with what is on your plate. Foods that boost circulation are good for your heart, eyes, and vision. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E are protective against age-related vision problems such as macular degeneration and cataracts. A balanced diet along with heart-healthy foods like citrus fruits, dark leafy greens, whole grains, and zinc rich foods like beans, peas, peanuts, shellfish, lean red meat, and poultry can help eyes resist light damage.
Vitamin A and Beta carotene are very important for good vision. These are found in yellow and deep orange fruits and vegetables. Lutein and zeaxanthin (a carotenoid pigment) is found in leafy greens and brightly coloured produce.

20-20-20 rule

Staring at a digital screen makes the eyes feel tired and dry. We do not blink as much as we should when we work on computers or laptops.

The 20/20/20 rule says that every 20 minutes, look at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Also, place your screen so it's about 20 or more inches away from you and slightly below eye level. Cut glare by moving direct light sources away or using a protective screen filter on your computer.

Sunglasses

UV radiation not only affects the skin but also takes a toll on the eyes. This could result in cataracts, corneal burns and eyelid cancer. Get good sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of UV-A and UV-B rays. Protective lenses are not too expensive. Even hats block exposure. UV rays even reflect off water, sand and in colder places, snow.

Eye Problems

Allergies cause itchy or red eyes, they can be treated with cold compresses, antihistamines, or eye drops. If you feel grittiness, like there's sand in your eye, never rub your eyes as this creates friction and could cause scratches on the eyes lens. Instead rinse with clean water or saline. Persistent eye pain, secretions, swelling, or sensitivity to light should be checked and treated by an Ophthalmologist.

Eye Exams

Get your eyes checked every 2 years if you are between 30-60 years. Older people need to check their eyes every year to note any change in power. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, ask your doctor how often you need to come in for a check-up. Those with risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease need to pay close attention to their eye health.

Know Your Health History

Did you know that high blood pressure and diabetes can reduce blood flow to the eyes? Even immune system disorders in the lungs hormonal imbalances in the thyroid glands, or elsewhere can inflame eyes, too. Other risk factors include multiple sclerosis, aneurysms, and cancer. Carry all your medical reports with you to the doctor and discuss about any current or past health issues. Mention if any close family members have eye problems or serious illnesses.

Throw Away Old Eye Makeup

Attention ladies! Do not store your favourite mascara or eyeliner for too long. Bacteria thrive in liquid or creamy eye makeup. Replace make up products after 3 months. If you develop an infection, stop applying eye makeup immediately and see a doctor. If you tend to have allergic reactions, use cosmetics that are hypo allergic. Never share cosmetics and stay away from samples. As much as possible stay make-up free and wash your face well to remove any traces of make up before going to sleep.

Stop Smoking

Smoking causes free radical production which means a dramatic increase in incidence of macular degeneration. Smoking also raises your risk of developing cataracts and dries the eyes. Plaque build-up caused by smoking damages the retina and causes loss of vision. After quitting, the risk of eye disease is about the same as for non-smokers.

Control your blood sugar

Blood sugar needs to be effectively managed to prevent Glaucoma and Cataracts. Diabetics are 40% more likely to suffer from glaucoma than people without diabetes. Those with diabetes for long periods are at a higher risk for glaucoma, the risk also increases with age. Glaucoma occurs when pressure builds up in the eye. The pressure pinches the blood vessels carrying blood to the retina and optic nerve. Vision is gradually lost because of the retinal and nerve damage.