Guide to help you take proper care of the eyes

In almost everything we do, we need to think about eye care. They are, after all, the only pair we’ve got. Whether you are driving, working at a computer or simply sunbathing, it is so easy to take them for granted.

Good eyesight is essential at all times. Eyes are delicate and need constant care. Take proper care of the eyes as follows:

• When cleaning the face, pay particular attention to the areas around the eyes.
• Eat a diet rich in vitamins A and C, which are good for your eyesight.
• Work in well-lit areas to avoid straining the eyes.
• Consult an optician or an ophthalmologist if you suspect poor eyesight or any other eye problem.

Care from Computers and other screens

Research conducted by the College of Optometrists shows that most of us spend nearly 50 hours a week staring at a computer screen.

More than half of those say they suffer from “tired eyes”, while others admit to suffering headaches, blurred vision and have difficulty focusing.

If you spend a lot of your time looking at computers it is crucial you take regular breaks and have regular eye examinations.

Care from Sun and sunshine

There is evidence that too much exposure to the sunshine, in particular, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can contribute to the development of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Children and the sun

Research has shown that 76 percent of parents admit to not making sure their child wears sunglasses when out and about in the sun.

Since children spend a lot of time outside, it’s important to protect your child’s eyes in the sun. Make sure your child’s sunglasses have 100% UV protection and carry the British Standard (BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013) or CE mark. You can also protect your child’s eyes by making sure they wear a hat with a brim or a sun visor in bright sunlight.

However, scientific studies have shown that children who spend time outdoors are less likely to be short-sighted, and some eye problems are linked to unhealthy lifestyles. So don’t stop your child from exercising outdoors - just make sure their eyes are properly protected.

Buying sunglasses

Research has shown that almost 80 percent of under-25s put fashion and price before safety standards when choosing sunglasses.

Buy good quality, dark sunglasses - good sunglasses don’t need to be expensive: you can purchase perfectly adequate protective sunglasses from high street stores. Look out for glasses carrying the “CE” Mark and British Standard BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013, which ensures that the sunglasses offer a safe level of UV protection.

Sunbeds

Sunbeds have been linked to skin cancer, so they are best avoided. If you do use a sunbed, always make sure you wear eye protection while tanning.

The skin on eyelids is very thin and delicate so it is vital to protect eyelids from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Lack of protection could lead to benign eye growths called pterygium and repeated exposure to UV may cause long-term damage which could affect your sightsee cataract and macular degeneration.

So it is vital that you use effective eye protection in the form of goggles or ‘winkies’ on both sun and tanning beds.

Care from Eclipse

You should never look directly at the sun. This applies when there’s a total or partial eclipse as well. This is because the radiation emitted by the sun is so powerful it may cause a solar burn of the retina.

By following these do’s and don’ts you’ll be able to enjoy this rare event without causing yourself unnecessary harm.

Care from Fireworks

If you are handling, lighting, or intend to be within close range of fireworks you should take precautions to protect your eyes. There are scores of eye injuries caused by fireworks every year which could be prevented by following safety advice.

Care During Driving and vision

What considerations do people with sight problems need to make when driving?

It’s important to have your sight tested if you think you may have a problem with your eyesight, in fact, studies suggest that up to one in five middle-aged drivers are taking to the road knowing their eyesight is not as good as it should be. It is not just common sense to ensure your eyesight is good enough to enable you to drive comfortably, but you will be breaking the law if it isn’t.

Care from 3-D Displays

3D displays are becoming more popular both for cinema, television and some handheld displays. There is no evidence that the use of these displays can cause you any harm, but if you have difficulty seeing the 3D effect, or get headaches or any other problems with your eyes you should see your optometrist for advice.