Many of us take our vision for granted, not considering how our day-to-day lifestyle impacts on our eyesight.
From how much sleep we get to what we eat and drink, there are so many decisions we make every day which can affect how well we can see, both now and in years to come.
While making sure you don’t miss your regular vision check is vital, there are lots of other things you can also do to look after your sight.
Stop smoking
Smoking is one of the most harmful habits you can have for your eyes, with the RNIB stating that smoking can in fact double the chances of losing your sight.
The prominent charity explains: “Smoking causes harm to the tissues of the eye. Research has confirmed the harmful effects of smoking on eyesight, particularly in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – one of the UK’s leading causes of sight loss – and cataracts.”
Worryingly, the RNIB states that passive smoking is almost as harmful as smoking yourself, so take a moment to think about the others around you next time you light up.
If you are thinking about quitting but need support, the NHS Smokefree website is full of tools and advice.
Think before you drink
When it comes to over-indulging with alcohol there are various short-term effects – think puffy or bloodshot eyes, blurry vision or blind spots. But it’s the long-term effects which can really have an impact on your vision.
Drug and alcohol rehab treatment organisation Help4addiction explains: “As well as immediate effects, alcohol can cause long-term damage to your eyes. This could include age-related macular degeneration, weakened ocular muscles, eye paralysis, eye perforation, and much more.
“If you are noticing issues with your eyes, the first thing you should do is speak to your GP or consult an optician.”
Don’t skip sleep
Ensuring you get enough sleep is vital for healthy eyes. Without the right amount of rest your eyes can’t produce enough tears which can often lead to them looking red and feeling dry and itchy. It can result in eye infections, blurry eyesight, twitches and a sensitivity to light, too.
To help you get a good night’s sleep, The Sleep Charity suggests a whole range of tips including keeping to a regular bedtime routine, creating a comfy, restful environment, including regular exercise in your day and cutting down on stimulants such as caffeine in tea or coffee.
Eat a balanced diet
Did you realise what you eat has an impact on your eye health?
Vision Matters, the organisation behind National Eye Health Week, explains many people don’t realise poor diet can put your sight at risk.
“…awareness of the link between diet and good eye health is low – a recent survey found sixty per cent of people living in the UK had no idea that what they eat can affect the health of their eyes. Vitamins, minerals and carotenoids found in many fruits, vegetables and other wholesome foods can help protect your sight and keep your eyes healthy,” the organisation explains.
This article is a great resource to help you plan a balanced diet which will support your eye health.
Stay sun safe
According to the NHS, it’s not just mid-summer sunshine which can have an impact on your eyes.
“Reflected sunlight from snow, sand, concrete and water and artificial light from sunbeds is particularly dangerous,” it explains.
UV radiation from the sun can have both short and long- term effects on our eyes. This article from The Met Office explains: “We often protect ourselves against UV by using sun cream or wearing protective clothing, however, we seldom consider what UV can do to our eyes. UV radiation from the sun or sunbeds can damage the eye’s surface tissues as well as the cornea and lens. UV can burn the surface of the eye much like sunburn on skin. To protect your eyes from UV exposure, wear good quality UV protective sunglasses.”
If you are concerned about your vision, please give us a call and book in to see one of our opticians.