What have you done today to improve your eye health?
Regular eye exams are just one of many ways to improve your eyesight and prevent injuries or illnesses that could damage it. Keep reading to discover our top 8 tips for how to improve your vision naturally.
If you'd like to learn more about eye care, or to schedule an eye exam, give EYES on Main in Blacksburg a call.
1. Get Enough Essential Vitamins and Minerals
How you fuel your body matters. Consuming the right nutrients can boost not only your overall health but also your eye health. Aim for a diet that’s rich in the following:
- Vitamins A, C and E
- Zinc
- Lutein and zeaxanthin
- Omega-3 fatty acids
Keeping your body adequately hydrated will also promote a healthy tear film for optimally clear and comfortable vision.
2. Keep Chronic Conditions Under Control
Certain chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can have a drastic effect on your eyes and vision. If you live with any chronic conditions or are at risk of developing them, speak with your optometrist about the best preventative measures for keeping your eyes healthy.
3. Shield Your Eyes
Eye injuries are more common than you may think. The good news is that almost all of these injuries are preventable with the right eyewear. Whether you’re playing sports, gardening, crafting, or going for a run, your eyes and vision can benefit from protective glasses and goggles.
And yes, that includes a pair of high-quality 100% UV-blocking sunglasses whenever outdoors. If you don’t yet own a pair, stop by EYES on Main and choose from our wide selection of name-brand sunnies.
4. Hit the Gym
Getting regular exercise is beneficial for just about every bodily system, including the eyes. In fact, research published in The Journal of Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science (2020) found that staying fit can help ward off eye diseases like macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.
5. Stop Smoking
Smoking cigarettes dramatically increases a person’s risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.
Speak with your primary care doctor about the best ways to kick the habit.
6. Wash Your Hands Frequently
Touching your eyes with dirty hands can lead to infections, blurry vision and irritation. That’s why it’s best to avoid touching your eye area or face throughout the day.
If you do need to touch your face or eyes, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.
7. Live By the 20-20-20 Rule
When looking at a digital screen, shift your gaze away from the screen every 20 minutes and focus on an object that’s at least 20 feet away for about 20 seconds. This will help prevent digital eye strain and keep your vision clearer.
8. Have Regular Eye Exams at EYES on Main
If it’s been more than a year since your last comprehensive eye exam it’s time to schedule your next visit.
Having regular eye exams is the only way to detect early signs of eye disease. Several serious eye conditions don’t produce noticeable symptoms until vision loss has occurred.
Aside from routine eye care, contact your EYES on Main optometrist if you notice any changes in your vision or eye health, or if you’d like a new pair of glasses or contact lenses.
To schedule your eye exam, be in touch with EYES on Main in Blacksburg today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do eye exams take?
- Typically, eye exams can last between 20-60 minutes. The length of an exam varies depending on the patient’s overall health and visual condition. Patients who need to be fitted for contact lenses, have their pupils dilated, or are experiencing ocular problems can expect to have a longer appointment than other patients.
Can eye exercises improve vision?
- Eye exercises won’t improve vision problems due to myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). They may, however, improve visual clarity if you’re suffering from eye strain. Speak with your eye doctor about eye exercises that can help relieve discomfort associated with strained eyes.
Quality Frames For Prescription Eyeglasses & Computer Glasses. Visit EYES on Main for an eye exam and eyeglasses that match your style.