Staying at home for extended periods of time has caused many Americans to spend more time looking at their screens and less time worrying about regular health checkups. These two factors may prove problematic for your eye health, which is why Signature Optometry is here today to offer a couple of helpful tips to protect your vision until you can schedule an appointment with your optometrist.
Keep reading for information to keep your eyes healthy, and be sure to reach out to our Fresno optometrists for complete assistance. We’re open and available for emergencies, so be sure to call today if you need assistance!
Protect Your Eyes When Needed
Sunshine and fresh air are essential, especially when you are trying to stay sane during lockdown. You can spend some time soaking up the California sun, but keep in mind that less time outdoors does not negate the need for proper eye protection. Sunglasses can help to block out much of the sun’s harmful rays, including UVA and UVB rays. Whether you’re spending time evening out your tan or you want to travel the trails, it helps to keep your eyes safe from harm!
Don’t Forget Proper Nutrition
We are what we eat, and when it comes to optimal eye health, we should all be composed of healthy vitamins and minerals. Proper nutrition has been found to reduce the chances of developing age-related vision problems such as cataracts. Focus on healthy foods to absorb healthful amounts of zinc, lutein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and more to keep your eyes supported and healthy.
Take Breaks From Screen Time
During quarantine, many of us have been guilty of spending a little too much time on our devices. This excess screen time can generate considerable fatigue, causing your vision to blur, straining your eyes, and leading to issues such as headaches.
In order to protect your eyes from unhealthy amounts of screen time, you can elect to try a number of helpful approaches:
- Blink frequently if your eyes are dry. Eye strain can cause your eyes to dry out. Be sure to consciously blink more if you notice irritation.
- Avoid glare where possible. Working from home may be great, but the glare from your window may impact your vision. Try to minimize glares where you can, and be sure to invest in an anti-glare screen if your optometrist recommends it!
- Check your prescription status. Old, outdated glasses may only worsen your eye strain.
- Rest your eyes every 20 minutes. While it can be hard to try and introduce a new habit into your workflow, it can prove very beneficial to follow the 20-20-20 rule — Every 20 minutes, rest your eyes by looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This change in ocular scenery will ensure that your eyes get the break they need and will help to retain better health.
Schedule With Your Fresno Optometrist
During these unprecedented times, many people are focused on a myriad of tasks and daily concerns. If you’re a California resident who has been putting off your annual health and vision exam, it’s important to keep in mind that examinations by a trained eye doctor are the best way to treat problems before they get worse. Our Fresno optometrists can provide support during these times. Although our office is closed due to COVID-19, we are open for emergency eye care in the event that you require immediate assistance.
Ready to learn more about our eye doctors in Fresno? Contact us today!