Poor eyesight or eye health can affect a person’s entire life and wellbeing, which is why it’s important to keep your eyes in the best condition possible.
Alison Johnson of Dundee opticians Lindsay & Johnson (pictured below, centre), gives us her top tips to keep your eyes in great condition.
- Have your eyes tested regularly. “Your optician can pick up a lot of eye conditions, such as cataract, macular degeneration and glaucoma in the early stages when treatment might be most beneficial. I know it sounds scary, but there is a lot of treatment available – as long as these conditions are picked up early. An eye examination may also pick up aspects of your general health that may need to be addressed – for example diabetic or blood pressure changes. Very importantly, being able to see well in comfortable, stylish frames (a fashion accessory nowadays) or well-fitted contact lenses will increase your sense of wellbeing. Consult us with any eye or sight-related problems you may have. We have the equipment, education and expertise to help.”
- Don’t smoke. “Smokers are three to four times as likely to go blind with macular degeneration (the largest cause of blindness in the UK) than non-smokers, so the most important thing you can do for healthy eyes is not to smoke.”
- If you smoke – give up. “There is a lot of help available to give up smoking- and loads of health benefits if you stop. Remember how precious sight is and how you would hate to lose it- and take action to give up smoking NOW!”
- Eat healthily. “Research has shown that foods that help build up macular pigment such as dark, leafy green vegetables, yellow foods and coloured berries – plus carrots, the one every knows about – really benefit your eye health. Try very hard to eat your five-a-day.”
- Keep a healthy weight. “Again, this reduces your risk for several eye problems such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataract. Exercise regularly and try to get out and about in the fresh air.”
- Protect your eyes from UV light. “Caps and hats can help you avoid UV light and good quality prescription or regular sunglasses with UV protection are essential. High refractive (thin) lenses usually have UV protection built in, as do some anti-reflection coatings. Make the investment for the sake of your eyes.”
- Look up from your screen. “Prolonged use of a computer, tablet or phone is very tiring for your eyes and can led to eyestrain, headaches and dry eyes. Strictly ration your viewing.”
- Blink properly. “So many of us just make shallow blinks. To avoid dry eyes and eye fatigue blink well throughout the day.”
- Try and get enough sleep. “Rested eyes are a lot more comfortable than tired eyes.”
- Wear your glasses. Wearing glasses won’t make your eyes worse – it will just give you clear, comfortable vision.”
Find out more, or book your next appointment, at the Lindsay & Johnson website.
