By Capital Blue Cross
You often hear about the importance of proper dental care, protecting your skin from the sun, and the benefits of healthy eating and exercise. Your eyes deserve just as much attention.
According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), taking steps to protect your eye health can help reduce your risk of vision problems and support long-term eye function. Here are five simple things you can do to make a meaningful difference in your eye health over time, from reducing eye strain to supporting overall vision health.
1. Know your family eye health history
Your family health history can play an important role in your risk for certain eye conditions. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), some eye diseases, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, can run in families.
Understanding your family history can help you and your doctor identify potential risks early and take steps to monitor or manage your eye health over time.
2. Reduce eye strain from screens
Many of us spend a lot more time in front of our screens than we have in the past. Spending long periods of time looking at screens can lead to digital eye strain, which can adversely affect your eye health. Symptoms may include dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches.
One of the simplest ways to reduce eye strain is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Adjusting screen brightness, reducing glare, and taking regular breaks also can help protect your eyes during extended screen use.
3. Get regular eye exams
Regular eye exams are one of the most effective ways to protect your vision. According to the CDC, regular comprehensive eye exams can detect vision problems and other health conditions, sometimes before symptoms appear.
How often you need an eye exam can vary based on your age, risk factors, and overall health. Talk with your doctor or eye care professional about what schedule is right for you. Check your vision insurance plan to learn more about the level of coverage included for your eye exams.
4. Choose foods that support eye health
What you eat can have a direct impact on your eye health. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E, along with leafy green vegetables, may help support healthy vision and long-term eye health.
Incorporating foods like spinach, kale, fish, and citrus fruits into your diet can provide important nutrients that support your eyes and overall health.
- Protect your eyes from UV light
Spending time outdoors is important, but exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can increase your risk of eye damage over time. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), wearing sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays can help protect your eyes from harmful sun exposure.
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still reach your eyes, so it is important to wear protective eyewear whenever you are outdoors.
For more information on navigating your health, wellness, and insurance benefits, visit Capital Journal from Capital Blue Cross.
