Eye Health
Simple Steps for Healthier Eyes: Eye Health Basics Everyone Should Know
Your eyes work hard every day—from reading and working on a computer to driving, watching television, and enjoying the people and places around you. Yet eye health is something many of us don't think about until we notice a change in our vision.
The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to protect your vision and support healthy eyes throughout your life.
At Optometrists of Omaha, we believe that understanding your eye health is an important part of taking care of your overall well-being. Here are a few basic eye-health tips everyone should know.
1. Schedule Regular Comprehensive Eye Exams
One of the best things you can do for your eyes is have them examined regularly—even if you feel like you can see perfectly.
A comprehensive eye exam does more than determine whether you need glasses or contact lenses. Your optometrist can also evaluate the health of your eyes and look for signs of conditions that may not cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages.
Depending on your age, health history, vision needs, and risk factors, your optometrist can recommend an appropriate examination schedule.
2. Protect Your Eyes From UV Exposure
Just as you protect your skin from the sun, your eyes benefit from protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
When you're outdoors, consider wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. A wide-brimmed hat can provide additional protection on particularly sunny days.
Quality sunglasses aren't just a fashion accessory—they can be an important part of your overall eye-care routine.
3. Eat for Your Eye Health
A balanced diet supports your entire body, including your eyes.
Nutrients found in leafy green vegetables, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts, and other nutrient-rich foods can contribute to overall eye health. Staying properly hydrated may also help with general comfort, particularly for people who experience dry eyes.
Rather than focusing on one particular "eye-health food," aim for a varied, balanced diet.
4. Take Contact Lens Care Seriously
If you wear contact lenses, proper care is essential. Always follow the cleaning, replacement, and wearing instructions provided by your eye-care professional and the lens manufacturer.
Good contact lens habits include:
Washing and drying your hands before handling lenses
Following the recommended replacement schedule
Using the appropriate contact lens solution
Avoiding sleeping in lenses unless specifically instructed to do so
Avoiding swimming or showering while wearing lenses unless your eye-care professional recommends otherwise
Keeping your contact lens case clean and replacing it regularly
If your eyes become painful, significantly red, unusually sensitive to light, or your vision changes while wearing contacts, remove your lenses and contact your eye-care professional promptly.
5. Don't Ignore Changes in Your Vision
Your eyes can sometimes provide clues that something has changed. If you notice persistent blurry vision, new floaters or flashes, double vision, eye pain, unusual redness, or another significant change, it's important to have your eyes evaluated.
Some eye conditions can develop without obvious symptoms, which is another reason routine eye examinations are so valuable.
And if you experience a sudden loss of vision, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes, or a curtain-like shadow across your vision, seek urgent medical attention.
6. Remember That Eye Health Is Part of Overall Health
Certain systemic health conditions can affect the eyes. Your family history, medications, lifestyle, and overall health can all be relevant when your optometrist evaluates your eyes.
Be sure to tell your eye-care team about relevant changes in your health and medications. Keeping your optometrist informed helps them provide care that's appropriate for you.
Healthy Eyes Start With Healthy Habits
Taking care of your eyes doesn't have to be complicated. Regular eye exams, good nutrition, UV protection, healthy screen habits, and proper contact lens care can all play a role in maintaining comfortable, healthy eyes.
Most importantly, don't wait for a vision problem to become disruptive before making eye care a priority.
The team at Optometrists of Omaha is here to help you understand your vision and maintain your eye health at every stage of life. If it's been a while since your last comprehensive eye exam, consider scheduling an appointment and making your eye health part of your regular wellness routine.