Most people start January 1st trying to kick the smoking habit or drop a few pounds, but why not use the 2020 theme, but why not make eye health your New Year resolution? Regular yearly visits to the eye doctor is a resolution you can make and easily keep year after year not just in 2020.
What is 20/20 vision?
20/20 vision is a term used to express visual acuity (the clarity and sharpness of vision) measured at a distance of 20 feet away that should be seen normally at that distance.
- Schedule an eye exam for your whole family. Comprehensive eye exams are one of the most important, preventative ways to preserve vision and overall health.
- Wear sunglasses. Sunglasses help prevent certain eye diseases related to the sun. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration and pterygium. UV protection can help protect against these conditions, keeping your eyes healthier, longer.
- Rest your eyes. Just like the other muscles and organs in our bodies, our eyes also need rest every now and then. The human eye is made up of muscles and the good health of these muscles will determine how good a person’s vision will be.
- If you smoke, Quit! Studies have shown that smoking increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and even Dry Eye Syndrome.
- Be active. Cardiovascular exercises such as aerobics will lower intraocular pressure, which is pressure in your eyes, and that helps to keep the retinal ganglion cells protected. Cardio exercise also increases the flow of blood to the optic nerve and the retina. Because of these effects, overall eye health and vision can be improved, but it’s especially beneficial to people with glaucoma.
- Wear safety googles. Safety glasses provide eye protection for general working conditions where there may be dust, chips or flying particles. Side shields and wraparound-style safety glasses can provide additional side protection. Selection of protective eyewear appropriate for a given task should be made based on a hazard assessment of each activity. Not all hazards are work related, injuries can also occur away from work.
- Eat your greens. Healthy foods such as greens and fruits may help prevent certain eye conditions including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have been shown to occur less frequently in people who eat diets rich in vitamins, minerals, healthy proteins, omega-3 fatty acids and lutein.
- Drink lots of water. Your eye is surrounded by fluid, which protects the eye by washing away debris and dust every time you blink. Staying well hydrated is very important to maintain a healthy balance of fluid in the eye.
#eyegotcha #focuson20/20in2020
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