Regular eye exams are crucial, especially for those who wear glasses or have refractive errors. These checkups can detect early signs of problems like changes in eye pressure or issues with internal eye tissues. Annual eye exams allow for early disease detection and timely intervention.

Managing health conditions is also essential for eye health. Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, common in people in their 40s and 50s, can impact eye health. In fact, changes in vision can be an early warning sign for both. Controlling blood sugar and blood pressure helps protect your eyes.

Addressing dry eyes becomes increasingly important with age. As you get older, your eyes tend to become drier. Artificial tears can help alleviate dryness. If this isn't effective, consult an eye specialist for other options, such as treatments that support tear production.

Adopting a Mediterranean diet, rich in colorful fruits and vegetables, can nourish and protect your eyes. The antioxidants in these foods can prevent cell damage and reduce the risk of vision loss. A Mediterranean diet, emphasizing fish, lean meats, flaxseed, nuts, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats like olive oil, can help lower the risk of blurred vision and central vision loss.

Reducing screen time is important as excessive use of smartphones, laptops, and TVs can strain your eyes. Your eyes use muscles to focus, accommodate, and align. Without proper rest, these muscles can deteriorate. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of reading or screen work, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Getting enough sleep allows your eyes to replenish moisture and remove irritants like dust and allergens. Lack of sleep can disrupt this cleaning process, affecting eye health.

Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of macular degeneration and protect against cataracts, which cause blurred vision. A family history of macular degeneration also increases risk.

Bao Bao (Times of India)