The Sun’s rays are powerful, especially in sunny Orange County, California! UV damage is harmful to eye health and can cause cataracts and retinal damage in addition to other eye diseases. It is extremely important to protect the health of your eyes with a quality pair of polarized sunglasses. Where your sunglasses every time you step outside, even if it is a cloudy day. Not all sunglasses provide the same level of UV protection, so be sure to ask us for recommendations.
2. Never touch or rub the eyes
We carry particles, microbes, oils and other debris around with us on our hands. By refraining from touching your eyes, you minimize the risk of infections, redness, and irritation. As needed, a preservative free artificial tear is recommended to flush debris or soothe your eyes. Ask us if you need a recommendation for what type of drops to use, this may vary depending on your symptoms and medical history. Rubbing the eyes typically creates more inflammation and, when done excessively, can even cause keratoconus, a progressive eye disease in which the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape.
3. Proper Nutrition and Eye Vitamins.
Eating a proper diet, inclusive of fruits and vegetables, is very important. Eye vitamins, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin B are essential for optimal eye health. Minerals, including Zeaxanthin, Zinc and Lutein are also beneficial. I myself focus on eating a balanced diet. I also take a quality multivitamin, as well as Macuhealth (vitamin specifically for eye health) and a quality Omega 3 fish oil. If you have a family history of ocular disease, you may also want to consider adding an eye health vitamin, like Ocuvite.
4. Blue Light Protection
Most of us spend many hours daily in front of our computers, smart phones, TVs and other electronic devices. These devices all emit blue light which can fatigue us, strain the vision and affect our sleep. See our other blog, specifically on blue light, for more information. I wear glasses that have a Blue Light Anti-Reflective coating when using digital devices as a way to be more productive and less visually strained. Additionally, they help protect against disease, including macular degeneration.
