How to Preserve Your Eyesight
- 1). Know your family history and whether family members suffer from any eye diseases. For example, African Americans over 40 have a higher risk for developing eye diseases, indicates All About Vision.
- 2
See your doctor.Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
Notice any visual disturbances you develop, which can include floaters or double vision. Visit your ophthalmologist. - 3
Always protect your eyes.Photos.com/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
Wear glasses if you have an eyeglass prescription. Use sunglasses to shield your eyes against UV light, recommends Bausch and Lomb. - 4). Use glaucoma eye drops when you've been diagnosed with the disease. Even if you haven't developed symptoms, adhering to your doctor's treatment plan can prevent irreversible eye damage, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.
- 5
Take care of your diabetes.BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images
Treat your diabetes. While vision disturbances occur when you're first diagnosed with diabetes, continued visual disturbances require a modification in treatment, according to the Joslin Diabetes Center. - 6
Keep your blood pressure under control.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
Monitor your blood pressure with diabetes. High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in your eyes. Aim for a blood pressure of 130/80, advises the Joslin Diabetes Center. - 7
Keep your body fit.Creatas Images/Creatas/Getty Images
Exercise more. Exercise increases your blood flow, as well as helping to reduce diseases such as macular degeneration. Macular degeneration causes blurring and blind spots. - 8
Eat foods that will benefit your sight.Digital Vision./Digital Vision/Getty Images
Incorporate healthier foods into your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids found in foods such as fish can help reduce the risk of developing cataracts. Foods containing antioxidants, such as red berries, and leafy green vegetables can also provide protection for your eyes.
