10 Eyecare Tips

While most of us regularly take care of our skin, hair, nails, and other parts of our bodies, why do we sometimes forget to take care of our eyes? One of the most sensitive parts of your body is your eyes, and it is important to keep them healthy. Protecting your eyes from dust, direct sunlight, pool chemicals, and infections caused by harmful microorganisms is part of good eye care.

Some of us only start taking care of our eyes once we experience problems such as blurry vision or red eyes, and we tend to ignore the long-term care needed for good vision and the precautions that go along with it. 

Eye problems are easy to avoid if you take care of your eyes the right way.

Here are some tips you should observe to keep your eyes healthy.

1. Do not rub your eyes.

Every time you touch or rub your eyes, you risk transferring dirt, dust, and bacteria from your hands to your eyes. Avoid touching your eyes with your hands to avoid infection and irritation.

2. Make sure to wash your hands frequently.

It is important to wash your hands frequently in order to keep bacteria from spreading and lessen the chances of those bacteria getting into your eyes, eyeglasses, or contact lenses.

3. Get enough sleep.

Your eyes require rest. Get adequate sleep to maintain good vision.

4. Maintain a healthy diet.

Eyes need vitamins and nutrients to prevent eye problems. Always fill your diet with nutritious foods.

5. Drink water.

Getting enough fluids is important for the health of your whole body, including your eyes. Drinking enough water throughout the day can stop dryness and irritation from setting in your eyes.

6. Stop smoking.

You are more likely to get eye problems, including cataracts, if you smoke. Smoking can also cause damage to the optic nerves, which, over time, can have a negative impact on a person’s vision.

7. Maintain proper eye distance from computer screens.

Keep at least 20 inches (51 cm), about the length of one arm, between your eyes and the screen. Place the monitor 20 degrees below eye level. It will prevent your eyes from getting tired.

8. Follow the rule of 20-20-20.

• Take your eyes off your computer screen and look at any object at least 20 feet away every 20 minutes. 
• Blink 20 times in a row to keep your eyes from getting dry.
• Take 20 steps every 20 minutes. Taking short breaks from the screen is good for your eyes and helps blood flow.

9. Wear sunglasses when outside.

Sunlight and ultraviolet rays raise the chance of developing age-related macular degeneration. They also have the potential to induce sunburn or photokeratitis on the cornea. Wearing sunglasses will protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. You can get UV-protected spectacles or contact lenses if you don’t like the idea of actually wearing them. It is also a good idea to wear caps, visors, and hats for additional protection.

10. Protect your eyes with the right gear.

Always protect your eyes, no matter what you are doing. Wear safety glasses to keep dust, bacteria, and foreign objects from getting into your eyes while doing DIY projects. Using swimming goggles will protect your eyes from chlorine when you go swimming. 

Have a regular eye exam! Visit us at the Walmart Vision Center Crystal Lake, IL or Walmart Vision Center, Harvard, IL.