Taking care of your eyes is crucial, yet it’s something that so many people don’t pay enough attention to. That’s just one of the reasons why 12 million people over the age of 40 in the U.S. alone struggle with vision issues.
Granted, there are a variety of factors that can play into poor vision. But, taking care of your eyes and making eye health a priority can help you to have better vision and reduce your risk of developing different ailments.
Thankfully, taking care of your eyes is easier than you might think! With summer just around the corner, the obvious solution for most people is to wear sunglasses for UV protection. But, that isn’t always enough.
So, what can you do to protect your eyes this summer, and every year from now on?
1. Don’t rub your eyes
Washing your hands frequently is incredibly important, but no matter how often you wash them, they always contain bacteria.
If you happen to rub your eyes, even after just washing your hands, you’re putting yourself at risk of developing some kind of eye infection. All it takes is one harmful bacteria to wreak havoc on your eyes.
2. Wear goggles
Going to the pool? Always cover your eyes with goggles when you do. If you’ve ever opened your eyes while you’re in a pool, you probably notice right away how much they burn. That’s the chlorine in the pool causing a stinging sensation.
While chlorine is meant to keep your body safe from bacteria, it can damage your eyes if you’re frequently exposed to it. The simple solution is to wear goggles and protect your eyes whenever you’re in a swimming pool.
3. Stay hydrated
You probably already know how important it is to drink enough water during the warm summer months. But, if you needed another reason to stay hydrated, think about your eye health.
Dehydration makes it harder for your body to naturally produce tears. That can lead to dry eyes, which will contribute to vision problems. Instead of reaching for the eye drops, reach for a water bottle, and make sure you’re staying hydrated.
4. See an eye doctor
You don’t have to wait until the summer to see an eye doctor, but this is an important reminder to have every year. Seeing an ophthalmologist regularly will help to keep your vision as solid as possible and your eyes healthy.
An eye doctor can check for the beginning of any underlying conditions and provide you with treatment, if necessary. They can also help you with preventative strategies to keep your eyes healthy. Check out retinaandeye.com.au for more information about how an eye doctor can keep your eyes healthy on an annual basis.
While you’re protecting yourself from the sun this summer, don’t ignore your vision health. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your eyes are protected and healthy, and turn them into vision-friendly habits that you’ll remember for years to come. Your eyes will thank you when you’re older and your vision is still sharp!