Eye Protection 101
With eyesight being so important, questions abound about what can damage your eyes and what you can do to protect them. To help you know how to keep your eyes healthy, we answer five of the most commonly asked questions.
Q1: WILL READING IN DIM LIGHTING WORSEN MY VISION?
Dim lighting will not damage your eyesight. However, it will tire your eyes out more quickly. The best way to position a reading light is to have it shine directly onto the page, not over your shoulder. TIP: Use a desk lamp, with an opaque shade, pointed directly at the reading material.
Q2: ARE CARROTS THE BEST FOOD SOURCE FOR MY EYES?
Carrots contain vitamin A and are good for the eyes. But, fresh fruits and dark green leafy vegetables contain more antioxidant vitamins such as C and E, and are even better for your eyes. TIP: Antioxidants may even help protect the eyes against cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Q3: SHOULD I WEAR SUNGLASSES?
Protecting your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays is always a wise decision and you don’t have to spend a lot to get a quality pair of sunglasses. However, you do need to know what type of lenses. For protection against ultraviolet rays (UVA & UVB), make sure your sunglasses have 95% to 100% blockage. TIP: Look for polarized lenses if you spend a lot of time on a boat or fishing; they reduce directional glare from the water. We have a large selection of sunglasses to protect your eyes and look great!
Q4: IS STARING AT A COMPUTER SCREEN ALL DAY DAMAGING MY EYES?
Using a computer doesn’t damage your eyes. But, staring at a computer screen all day can contribute to eyestrain or tired eyes. People who stare at a computer screen for long periods tend not to blink as often, which can cause the eyes to feel dry and uncomfortable. TIP: To help prevent eyestrain, use Dr. Katie’s 20/20/20 rule of thumb: every 20 minutes look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Also make a conscious effort to blink regularly so that your eyes stay well lubricated.
Q5: DO I NEED TO TAKE A BREAK FROM MY GLASSES OR CONTACTS TO GIVE MY EYES A REST?
If you need glasses or contacts for distance or reading, use them. Not wearing your glasses will strain your eyes and tire them out instead of resting them. TIP: To switch things up, alternate between wearing your glasses and contacts.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT EYE PROTECTION?
For more information about keeping your eyes healthy, contact Dr. Katie today to schedule an appointment.
