6 Tips for Healthy Eyes

Taking care of your eyes helps ensure healthy vision for a lifetime. To start, make sure to get an annual eye exam from the best eye doctors in Arizona. The eye doctors at Swagel Wootton Eye Institute can provide additional advice on maintaining healthy vision while wearing contact lenses or eyeglasses. Also, follow the tips below to improve your eye health.

1. Include Eye-Friendly Foods in Your Diet

Eating carrots for healthy vision has been a bit exaggerated. Carrots are good for your eyes, but so are other foods high in vitamin A, vitamin C, lutein, omega-3 fatty acids and zinc. These nutrients slow macular degeneration and cataracts, both conditions common in older adults.
Here are a few food heroes to set your sights on:

• Leafy green vegetables: kale and spinach
• Fatty fish: tuna and salmon
• Non-animal protein: beans, eggs and nuts
• Citrus fruits
• Nutritional supplements

2. Receive Regular Eye Exams

The National Eye Institute recommends vision screens for children every two years. If they develop conditions such as difficulty reading the board or crossed eyes, see one of our optometrists in Mesa and Chandler right away. Annual eye exams are recommended for adults, and adult over 40 should undergo frequent dilation exams, so our eye doctors can evaluate the health of your eyes.

3. Prevent or Alleviate Dry Eye Syndrome

Keeping your eyes hydrated can improve dry eye syndrome and enhance your vision. Avoid situations that can dry out and irritate your eyes by following these tips:

• Avoid air blowing directly in your eyes.
• Add moisture by using a humidifier in winter.
• Wear wraparound eye gear while riding bike or runner in dry air.
• Take eye breaks every 20 minutes when reading or working on the computer.
• Position your computer screen lower than eye level so your eyes aren’t wide open.
• Stop smoking. Smoke irritates your eyes.
• Use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated.

4. Use Sunglasses Every Day

Choose glasses that block UVA and UVB rays and wear polarized lenses to minimize glare.

5. Limit Screen Time

Technology is great, but computers, smartphones and other devices can strain your eyesight. Limit screen time and look away from the computer every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds to give your eyes a break.

6. Keep Your Contacts Clean

Take out your contacts every day or as directed. (Some contact lenses can be worn safely overnight or for more one than one day.) It’s important to use fresh solution every time you take out your contacts. When you do clean reusable contacts, make sure to thoroughly wash your hands and rub the lenses gently to loosen up any dirt and debris.

Best Eye Doctors in Arizona

At Swagel Wootton Eye Institute, we can schedule an annual eye exam to check and address any issues with your eye health and vision. Our optometrists in Mesa and Chandler also perform contact lenses exams if you’re ready for an alternative to eyeglasses. Contact us today for more information on all our vision services.