Nearsightedness is on the rise, partly because we're squinting at our computers instead of scanning the horizon. A large study published recently in the Archives of Opthalmology show that nearsightedness, or trouble seeing objects at a distance, rose by 66 percent over a 30 year period. An increase that seems to dove-tail all the close work we do like using computers, smart phones, e-book readers and other electronic devices.
Here's what you can do to maintain good vision throughout your life.
1) Eat Well: General rule of thumb: if it comes from your garden and is brightly colored, it's good for eye health. That means dark leafy vegetables, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, beets, etc. Data also suggest that people who consume more of the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and nuts are less likely to experience dry eyes.
2) Stay Healthy: Preventing the development of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity helps with keeping your eyes healthy. First, don't smoke because nicotine has an effect on blood vessels in the eyes. Second, good old fashion aerobic activity can help deliver oxygen to the eyes. Aim to move for at least an hour on most days.
3) Get Checked: Diseases like macular degeneration and glaucoma often are not noticeable until damage has already been done. That's why it's crucial to have your eyes checked at age 40 and regularly thereafter based on your doctor's advice.
4) Prevent Infections: Contact lens safety is critical for good vision. Contacts can slightly alter the surface of the eye and increase the risk for infection, which can lead to vision loss. Clean your contacts, wash your hands before touching them, and never sleep in them.
5) Protect your Eyes: Sun damage is cumulative all year round. Look for glasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Wear goggles or safety glasses to prevent potential injuries.
Other Stuff:
-20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes stare about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
-Since we tend to blink less when working close us, use natural tear drops before a long session on the computer.
-Apply cool compresses to closed eyes a few times a day. Using soak and cooled tea bags such as chrysanthemum can help with sore, bloodshot eyes.
-Be aware that dry eyes can be a side effect of some drugs used to treat things such as high blood pressure, pain and allergies.
-Qi Gong Exercises for eyes: Ask me for a copy.
-Herbal supplements: Ming Mu Qi Huang can be helpful depending on what is going on.
Jan Evraets RN LAc
Acupuncture
Scenar
Herbal Medicine
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