20 Jun Clear Vision: 7 Easy Steps for Maintaining Healthy Eyesight

In a country like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with its glittering skyline and bustling streets, having poor eyesight can cause you to miss out on so much.

Imagine not being able to fully appreciate the awe-inspiring architecture of the Burj Khalifa or the sparkling waters of the Palm Jumeirah. Picture struggling to navigate the vibrant souks and bustling malls, unable to soak in the rich culture and intricate details of the treasures on display.

Poor eyesight might even rob you of the simple joys of watching the sun set over the desert horizon or enjoying dolphin encounters in the best marine-themed parks in the country.

Having a clear vision opens up a world of endless possibilities in a city teeming with life and wonder. This guide will help ensure you never miss a moment of Emirati magic with seven simple tips for maintaining healthy eyesight.

1. Watch Your Diet

Good eyesight begins with what you eat. Omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin E are some of the nutrients you need to maintain your eye health.

• Incorporate foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and citrus fruits for vitamins A and C.
• Enjoy almonds, spinach, and cold-water fish like salmon for vitamin E, lutein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Don’t forget zinc-rich foods like beans and lean meats.

A balanced diet supports healthy eyes and helps reduce your risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, major contributors to vision loss.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

Proper hygiene helps prevent eye infections and preserve overall eye health. Contact lenses, in particular, require diligent care. Failing to clean your lenses properly may result in serious consequences, such as:

• Eye infections
• Corneal abrasions
• Vision loss

To keep your eyes healthy, clean your contact lenses frequently according to the instructions provided. Always ensure your hands are clean before handling the lenses, and never reuse old or expired lenses.

Following proper lens care practices lets you avoid discomfort and protect your eyes from potential harm.

3. Say No to Smoking

Smoking doesn’t just harm your heart and lungs. It’s also a major threat to your vision and eye health.

Lighting up increases the risk of various eye problems, including:

• Dry eyes
• Cataracts
• Age-related macular degeneration
• Glaucoma
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Optic nerve problems
• Uveitis (eye inflammation)
• Graves’ disease (bulging eyes)

Moreover, smoking during pregnancy can lead to eye issues in babies, while secondhand smoke can harm children’s eyes from a young age. Quitting smoking benefits your own health and protects the vision of those around you.

4. Shield Your Eyes

Sunglasses are more than a fashion statement. They’re also essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays from the sun.

Excessive UV radiation exposure makes you more susceptible to cataracts and macular degeneration, so investing in sunglasses with UV 400 protection is crucial.

• Invest in shades that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays.
• Consider wraparound styles for added side protection.
• Polarised lenses can also reduce glare, but you ensure they also offer UV protection.

Don’t forget protective eyewear for activities like sports or working with hazardous materials. Safeguarding your eyes is vital to maintaining long-term eye health.

5. Prevent Digital Eye Strain

Extended screen time often leads to eye strain, blurry vision, and headaches. Here are some ways you can protect yourself from digital eye strain:

• Ensure your glasses or contacts prescription is suitable for computer use.
• Adjust screen position to eye level. In a comfortable chair, sit with your feet flat on the floor to reduce strain.
• Minimise glare with anti-glare screens.
• Combat dry eyes by blinking more frequently or using artificial tears.

Most importantly, follow the 20-20-20 rule. This means to take a 20-second break to look at something roughly 20 feet away every 20 minutes.

These simple steps can alleviate digital eye strain and keep your eyes feeling fresh and focused.

6. Know Your Genetic Risk Factors

Did you know that your family’s medical history can also be your source of insight about caring for your eyes?

Understanding the risk factors engraved into your DNA enables you to take proactive steps to protect your vision. Common hereditary eye issues include:

• Glaucoma
• Strabismus (eye turn)
• Amblyopia (lazy eye)
• Age-related macular degeneration

Once you identify your genetic risks, discuss it with your eye doctor during regular check-ups. This will enable them to tailor your care plan accordingly.

Staying informed and taking preventive measures allows you to reduce the impact of your genetic risk factors on your eye health.

7. Have Regular Eye Checkups

Regular eye checkups are essential for preserving optimal eye health, just like any other aspect of your well-being. Eye exams support the early detection of eye diseases when treatment is most effective.

The National Eye Institute recommends dilated exams every one to two years, particularly for those over 60 or those with a family history of glaucoma.

During these exams, your ophthalmologist can assess various aspects of your vision and eye health, providing comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs. Schedule routine appointments with an eye doctor in Dubai to ensure your eyes receive the attention they deserve.

Protect Your Vision, Embrace Life

Prioritising proactive eye care not only benefits you but also your loved ones.

Follow the simple yet effective tips outlined here to safeguard your vision for years to come and reduce the likelihood of needing LASIK eye surgery in Dubai.

Start taking care of your eyes today.

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Last Updated on July 24, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD