Nowadays, everyone is concerned about staying healthy. According to a LASIK surgeon in Orange County, our eyes deserve particular attention at this moment. In order to minimize the risk of infection and potential vision problems as a result of poor hygiene, everyone should follow certain guidelines that will maintain the integrity of healthy, well-functioning eyes.
While we prioritize our general health, we should remember that our eyes do so much to improve our productivity, convenience, and quality of life. Here are some of the best ways you can protect your eyes, according to a LASIK surgeon:
Wash Your Hands
The number one tip that you will hear from any Orange County LASIK clinic is to wash your hands! Infections like conjunctivitis (or pink eye) can be contracted as a result of skipping this critical practice. You should also avoid sharing makeup, eye drops, towels, and any other product that gets near your eye with other people. This will minimize the spread of bacteria.
Limit Your Screen Time
According to a recent study, Americans spend an average of over 10 hours a day looking at a screen, whether that’s a computer, smartphone, TV, or other digital devices. This can cause a lot of eye strain and lead to dryness, fatigue, blurred vision, and irritation. In order to relieve your eyes from constant screen activity, you can try taking little breaks. Most eye care professionals recommend the 20-20-20 rule, which is that after every 20 minutes spent on a device, you should look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to give your eyes a chance to refocus. If you need to be inside for work, try to adjust your lighting so that it’s not too harsh for your eyes. You might even consider investing in blue light blocking glasses to help minimize screen time symptoms.
Take Care of Contacts
If you wear contact lenses, then you’re aware of the eye infection risks that come with this method of eye correction. You should always wash your hands thoroughly before inserting, removing, or adjusting your contact lenses. Follow your eye doctor’s instructions for daily cleaning methods and replacement timelines for reusable lenses. If you have the disposable kind, then remove and discard your contacts after each wear. Remember to remove your contacts before bed and only use the prescribed solution for cleaning your contacts. Tap water contains microorganisms that can attach to your lenses and cause infections.
Avoid Smoking
Many people are not aware that smoking can lead to macular degeneration, cataracts, dry eye, and uveitis. Recent statistics have shown that smokers are four times more likely than nonsmokers to experience blindness in old age.
Eat a Balanced Diet
In order to fortify your eye strength and vision, you should consume foods that are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and zinc. Try to incorporate vegetables like spinach, kale, and carrots in your diet. Salmon, apricots, and sweet potatoes are also good for your eyes.
Wear Sunglasses
One of the simplest things that you can do to protect your eyes is wear sunglasses! Harmful UV rays and radiation can cause cataracts and macular degeneration later in life. Make sure that your sunglasses offer full protection with UV400 or 100% UV protection written on the label.
It is so important to maintain good eye hygiene. Eyes are sensitive and valuable in our everyday lives. Serious inflammation and corneal infections can result in corneal scarring or even vision loss. So, in an effort to protect our bodies and our minds, everyone could practice better eye hygiene for a healthier, happier life.
