Eye Health 101: Easy Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Vision

Brits are increasingly neglecting their eye health, often brushing aside warning signs of potentially serious issues.

Research involving 2,000 adults found that four in 10 Brits avoid addressing vision problems, believing their eyesight is “good enough to get by.” Alarmingly, 41% admitted that their eye issues are negatively impacting their quality of life. Despite this, 62% delay seeking professional help, fearing they might need surgery. The study also revealed that 20% of respondents experienced sudden changes or discomfort in their vision over the past year. Of those, 35% waited to see if the symptoms would resolve on their own, while 20% have yet to consult a specialist despite persistent discomfort.

Nigel Kirkpatrick, medical director for Newmedica, emphasises the irreplaceable role our eyes play in daily life, warning that neglecting eye health not only jeopardises vision but can also diminish overall quality of life. If you’re ready to take charge of your eye health, here are some practical tips to get started.

Wear sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors

According to Glaucoma UK, sunglasses serve two essential purposes: they shield your eyes from uncomfortable glare and protect against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. More specifically, sunglasses block UV rays, exposure to which is a known risk factor for cataracts and may contribute to age-related macular degeneration. However, not all sunglasses offer the same amount of protection.

When choosing sunglasses, Glaucoma UK advises opting for reputable brands like Ray-Ban or Oakley, which adhere to established safety standards. Additionally, consider wearing sunglasses with oversized or wraparound lenses as they provide comprehensive coverage. These measures ensure your sunglasses effectively block UV rays, safeguarding both your eyes and the delicate skin around them.

Opt for daily contacts over reusable lenses

If you’re among the 4.1 million contact lens wearers in the UK, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with certain types of contacts. For instance, studies show that reusable soft contact lens users are 3.8 times more likely to develop Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a rare but serious infection. Researchers estimate that up to 62% of AK cases in the UK could be prevented by switching to daily lenses.

Fortunately, trusted retailer Vision Direct makes this transition easy, offering a variety of daily disposable contact lenses designed for different vision needs. Contact lenses like the 1-Day Acuvue Moist or Clariti 1 Day reduce the risk of infection and simplify your routine—no cleaning solutions are required.

Minimise screen time

A survey from Bionic indicates that the average adult in the UK spends an astonishing 76% of their waking hours online. This excessive screen use contributes to headaches, eye strain, and even poor sleep. To combat these effects, most experts agree that adults should limit screen time to less than two hours per day outside of work-related activities. If screen time is unavoidable, make sure you are practising eye-healthy screen habits. One good guideline to follow is the 20-20-20 rule, which has been confirmed to alleviate eye strain. Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen for 20 seconds to focus on an object 20 feet (6 metres) away. 

Maintain an active lifestyle

As we discussed in a previous post, exercising is one of the best things you can do to improve your health. Even something as simple as taking a walk four times per week can do wonders for your overall wellbeing. Moreover, exercising isn’t just good for your body but for your eyes as well. Scientific evidence suggests that engaging in aerobic exercise increases the vital supply of oxygen to your optic nerve to lower the pressure in your eyes, which can lower the risk of developing glaucoma. If walking isn’t for you, try doing something else that increases your blood flow, like biking, swimming, running, or dancing. No matter which activity you choose, your eyes will benefit, and you’ll also strengthen your heart health.

By incorporating these simple steps—wearing protective sunglasses, choosing daily contacts, managing screen time, and staying active—you can safeguard your eyesight for years to come. Don’t wait for a warning sign to take action; start prioritising your eye health today.

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