WebMD Editorial Contributors said taking care of your eyes is crucial for maintaining long-term vision and overall health. Eye care experts stress the importance of adopting healthy habits to prevent eye diseases that could lead to permanent vision loss.

Here are some key steps you can take to keep your eyes healthy:

  1. Eat a Nutritious Diet
    Your diet plays a significant role in eye health. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E can help reduce the risk of age-related vision problems such as macular degeneration and cataracts. These nutrients are abundant in green leafy vegetables, oily fish like salmon and tuna, eggs, nuts, beans, and citrus fruits. Maintaining a well-balanced diet also supports a healthy weight, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, a leading cause of adult blindness.
  2. Quit Smoking
    Smoking is a major risk factor for several eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and optic nerve damage. Quitting smoking is challenging, but every attempt increases the likelihood of success. Healthcare providers can offer resources and support to help break the habit.
  3. Wear Sunglasses
    Protecting your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is essential. Choose sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays to reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Wraparound lenses offer additional side protection, and polarized lenses can reduce glare without compromising UV protection.
  4. Use Safety Eyewear
    If you work in environments where eye injuries are possible, such as construction sites or labs, wearing appropriate safety glasses or goggles is vital. Additionally, athletes participating in sports like ice hockey and racquetball should wear protective eyewear to prevent injuries.
  5. Reduce Screen Time Strain
    Prolonged use of digital devices can cause eyestrain, dry eyes, and blurry vision. To minimize discomfort, ensure your glasses or contact lenses prescription is up to date, and consider using computer glasses. Adjust your monitor so that it is slightly below eye level and free from glare. Remember to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
  6. Regular Eye Exams
    Routine eye exams are crucial for detecting eye conditions early, even in children. These exams can identify diseases like glaucoma, which often have no symptoms in their early stages. Depending on your needs, you can visit an ophthalmologist, who can perform surgeries, or an optometrist, who specializes in diagnosing and treating eye conditions.

Regular eye care and adopting these healthy habits can go a long way in preserving your vision and preventing eye diseases. Don’t take your sight for granted—prioritize eye health in your daily routine.

For more information, visit WebMD Eye Health.