Our eyes process light and images, enabling us to observe, learn, and work daily. Protecting them involves more than just proper nutrition, limiting screen time, or regular check-ups. Several simple measures can also safeguard vision.

Note family history of eye conditions

Some eye conditions have a genetic component, including glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. If a family member has these conditions, inform your eye doctor for a risk assessment and an appropriate screening schedule.

Glaucoma often progresses silently, and early-stage macular degeneration might not cause clear symptoms. Therefore, if you are in a high-risk group, do not wait for vision changes before seeking an examination.

Regular eye exams help detect refractive errors and genetic eye conditions early. Illustration: Anh Chi

Identify your personal risk factors

Age and certain systemic diseases can increase the risk of eye conditions. For instance, individuals with diabetes face a risk of diabetic retinopathy, and high blood pressure can lead to some eye damage.

Understanding your personal risks empowers you to discuss with your doctor the appropriate timing and frequency of eye exams, rather than relying solely on normal current vision.

Wear protective eyewear when at risk of injury

The U.S. National Eye Institute recommends using appropriate glasses or protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye injury. When performing home repairs, using power tools, handling sharp objects, or playing contact sports, wear protective eyewear to minimize the risk of foreign bodies, dust, or objects damaging your eyes.

Eye injuries can damage the cornea and, in some cases, lead to long-term complications.

Properly clean contact lenses

Contact lens wearers must wash their hands before touching the lenses, clean and store them with appropriate solutions, and adhere to the recommended wearing schedule.

Improper lens hygiene can increase the risk of infection, even leading to corneal ulcers. Contact lens wearers should also remove their lenses before swimming, showering, or using hot tubs to reduce the risk of eye infections.

Even with normal vision, some eye conditions can progress without causing symptoms. Individuals with a family history of eye conditions, underlying diseases affecting vision, or who experience blurred vision, double vision, eye pain, red eyes, increased floaters, or vision changes should seek a specialist examination.

Bao Bao (compiled)