There are a number of things you can do to keep your eyes healthy:
Looking at computer monitors will not harm your eyes. Often, when using a computer for long periods of time, just as when reading or doing other close work, you blink less often than normal. This reduced rate of blinking makes your eyes dry, which may lead to the feeling of eyestrain or fatigue.
Try to take regular breaks to look up or across the room. Looking at objects farther away often relieves the feeling of strain on your eyes. Keep the monitor between 18 to 24 inches from your face and at a slight downward angle. Also consider the use of artificial tears. If your vision blurs or your eyes tire easily, you should have your eyes examined by an ophthalmologist.
Studies have shown that whole foods like fruits and vegetables offer greater protection for eye health than the consumption of individual nutrients or phytochemicals. This could be due to several things, including better absorption or metabolism from whole foods and additional, enhanced or synergistic effects of the multiple phytochemicals found in foods, as opposed to individual phytochemicals in supplements.
Additionally, eating fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of cataracts by 10 to 15 percent. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, making cantaloupes and other foods that are high in this carotenoid essential for night vision and overall eye function. Vitamin A deficiency has been associated with a higher incidence of macular degeneration. Other beta-carotene sources include carrots, kale, spinach and apricots.
Children can focus at close distance without eyestrain better than adults. They often develop the habit of holding reading materials close to their eyes or sitting right in front of the television.
There is no evidence that this damages their eyes, and the habit usually diminishes as children grow older. However, children with nearsightedness (myopia) sometimes sit very close to the television in order to see the images more clearly, so they should have an eye examination.
Many eye diseases and disorders become more common as we age. Advances in ophthalmology allow most people to maintain good vision as they grow older. Many eye problems can be prevented or corrected if detected in their early stages. Most older people have good vision. If you do develop a vision problem, early diagnosis and treatment by an ophthalmologist can help to preserve your sight.
Regular eye examinations by an ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) are the best way to detect eye conditions early, while they can be treated. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (M.D. or D.O.) with special training and skills to diagnose and treat all diseases and disorders of the eye. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends an eye disease screening at age 40. Based on the results of the initial screening, your ophthalmologist will let you know how often to return for follow-up exams.
Adults 65 years and older should have an eye exam every one to two years, as recommended by your ophthalmologist. The following are eye problems commonly experienced by older people.
Everyone should be wearing sunglasses to help prevent sun damage around the eyes, says Ellen Marmur, MD, associate professor of dermatology and genetics at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Believe it or not, eyelids are one of the most common places to find skin cancer. You can even get melanoma in the eyes. Chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure can cause premature aging around your eyes. Tear-free baby sunscreens can help protect delicate eye skin, but sunglasses and broad-rimmed hats will shield and protect your vision to boot. Wear sunglasses whenever you're outside—year-round, and even on cloudy days. Look for shades that offer more than 95 percent UV protection. Lenses that offer 100 percent UV protection may be labeled "UV400."
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant enzyme, manufactured in the body, that functions as part of the defense system for the lenses of your eyes. When glutathione levels are deficient, the eyes are more vulnerable to oxidative damage. Nutrients required to increase glutathione levels include selenium and vitamins C and E.
Top vitamin C sources include oranges, grapefruits, strawberries, papayas, kiwis, green peppers, red bell peppers and tomatoes.
Top vitamin E sources include almonds, pecans, sweet potatoes, sunflower seeds, dark, leafy greens and vegetable oils (e.g., safflower and corn).
Top selenium sources include Brazil nuts (with a whopping 95.8 micrograms per nut), snapper and shrimp.
