Often described as the windows of the souls, eyes are an important part of one’s health. Eyes are one of the most vital organs of our body and of all the five senses, people dread losing sight, the most. Although, most people’s vision deteriorates as they age, certain diseases can affect at any age if proper care is not taken. Some simple procedures followed regularly may help maintain healthy eyes into the golden years.
Regular Check-ups
A person might think his vision is fine and he does not need glasses or contact lenses but a check-up or a comprehensive dilated eye exam could prove otherwise. Additionally, several eye diseases such as glaucoma and diabetic eye disease have no warning signs.
During a comprehensive dilated eye exam, eyes are dilated through eye drops allowing more light to get in through the widened pupil. This enables the eye care professional to see the back of the eyes better and examine for any possible damage or disease.
Quit Smoking
Leading to blindness, research has linked a number of diseases to smoking. Doctors say, smoking can leave a person defenseless against developing infections such as macular degeneration, cataract and optic nerve damage.
Wear Protective Eye Gear
Sunglasses and other protective eye wear during sports or technical activities can greatly reduce the risk of damaging your eyes. The most important function sunglasses serve is to block UV rays. Being fashionable and trendy, sunglasses can block up to 99 percent of UV rays.
Resting Your Eyes
Working on computers can fatigue your eyes and cause dry eyes. People who work on computers tend to reduce the blink rate while concentrating on the screen. Sometimes a person forgets to blink for a longer period of time while focusing on work.
The 20-20 rule may help reduce the strain. Every 20 minutes, look away about 20 feet for 20 seconds. Palming is another great way to relax eyes. Rubbing your palms against each other till they become warm and covering your eyes with the warm palms for about a minute soothes your eyes.
Reducing Eye Burns
Placing cotton wool dips, soaked in rose water, on eyelids for 15-20 minutes reduces eye burns and helps prevent other serious diseases.
Avoid Wearing Contact Lenses for Long Periods
Prolonged use of contact lenses can cause serious discomfort and sometimes even permanent sight damage. 3-D glasses also tend to harm the eyes.
Use Allergen Reducing Eye Drops
Dry weather may cause eyes to get red and cause itching. Using anti-allergic eye drops may sooth itchiness and reduce or even eliminate redness from the eye. Excessive use of these drops may render them ineffective. The body gets so accustomed to the compounds of the eye drops, that they no longer work.
Apart from these tips, there are several herbal remedies that help maintain healthy eyes. Placing cucumber slices on eyelids for about 10 minutes before sleeping prevent puffiness. Eating carrots and fish rich in omega-3 acids provide several eye health benefits.