Protect your vision in 2025 with these simple habits, ensuring long-term eye health and clarity. Dr. Jay Goyal, senior eye surgeon and director of Surya Eye Institute, shares essential eye care tips.
Schedule regular eye check-ups
Even if you have no vision issues, an annual ophthalmologist visit helps detect conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy early. Many eye diseases show no initial symptoms, making routine exams crucial.
Practice proper eye hygiene
Good hygiene prevents pink eye (conjunctivitis) and other infections. Avoid sharing makeup, towels, or eye drops. Remove makeup before bed, wash hands before handling contact lenses, and use a fresh solution nightly.
Protect your eyes from UV rays
Wear sunglasses with 100 percent UVA and UVB protection to lower the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. UV radiation can also cause skin cancer around the eyes, so ensure proper protection.
Limit screen time and follow the 20-20-20 rule
To prevent digital eye strain, take a 20-second break every 20 minutes, focusing on an object at least 20 feet away. Remember to blink frequently to prevent dry eyes.
Maintain a balanced diet for eye health
Eat carrots, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, and salmon for nutrients like Omega-3s, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. Dark leafy greens contain Zinc, Zeaxanthin, and Lutein, reducing the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
Stay hydrated for healthy tear production
Water keeps eyes lubricated, removes bacteria, and prevents dryness and irritation. Dehydration can cause itchy, scratchy eyes, so drink enough water daily, especially in air-conditioned environments.
Avoid smoking to protect your vision
Smoking raises the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, uveitis, and dry eye syndrome. Smokers are two to three times more likely to develop cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Get adequate sleep
Sleep deprivation can cause dry eye, twitching eyelids, and eye strain. Aim for at least five hours of sleep each night to allow your eyes to recover.
Use protective eyewear for safety
Wear safety glasses when working with hazardous materials or engaging in sports and construction to prevent eye injuries.
Be mindful of age-related eye health
After 40, conditions like presbyopia and macular degeneration may develop. Consult an eye specialist for personalised care and preventive measures.
By following these habits, you can ensure better eye health and clearer vision in 2025.
Source: Hindustan Times
Bd-pratidin English/Fariha Nowshin Chinika
