A new year is here! Many of you created resolutions to optimize your health, finances, and zest for life. We want to encourage you to implement new year resolutions to maximize your eye health! Consider the following resolutions that will protect your vision for years to come:
1. Ditch Cigarettes for Good
The nicotine in cigarettes damage your eye’s blood vessels. This damage can cause the onset of various eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, dry eye, diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, graves’ disease, and others.
2. Limit Screen Time
The amount of sedentary, computer-focused work has grown exponentially in the past decade. Over-exposure to blue light from screens can cause your eyes to tire quickly and feel sore. We encourage you to implement the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This will help give your eyes a break during a screen-heavy workday.
3. Prioritize Sleep
A good night sleep is essential for your entire body – including your eyes – to recharge and take a break from the day’s demands. When your eyes are open, they are constantly communicating with your brain in order to produce an image. When you’re sleeping, your eyes get an opportunity to rest! Strive for 7 – 8 hours of sleep each night.
4. Wear Polarized Sunglasses
No matter the weather, we encourage you to always wear polarized sunglasses when you’re outside during daylight hours. Even if the clouds are blocking the sun, harmful UV rays can reach your eyes and cause damage. Our friends at First Look Opticians can help you pick out polarized sunglasses that are right for you.
5. Wash Your Hands Often
Whether you wear glasses or contact lenses (or neither!), it’s important to wash your hands often to avoid accidentally getting bacteria in your eyes when you rub them. Wash your hands with hot water and soap for at least 20 seconds to kill any germs that are on your hands.
Partner with Vision Eye Group for Optimal Eye Health
To maximize your eye health this year, visit your compassionate Vision Eye Group doctor right away. Routine eye exams are the number one way to catch eye diseases in their early stages. Protect your vision; partner with us! Call 478-744-1710 today!