Eye Care 101
Caring for your eyes can be made simple with a little prevention. Here are a few useful tips to protect your eyes year-round:
your skin. Effects add up and can cause problems like cataracts, cornea burns, and even cancer of the eyelid. Whenever you’re outside — even on cloudy days — wear sunglasses or contacts that block 99% to 100% of UV-A and UV-B rays. Protective lenses don’t have to be expensive, just check the label. Hats block exposure, too. Snow, water, sand, and concrete all can reflect UV rays.
Staring at a computer (or any digital screen) won’t hurt your eyes, but it can make them feel tired and dry. Surprisingly, we blink about half as often when we’re looking at a screen. Follow the 20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Also, place your screen so it’s about 25 inches away and slightly below eye level. Reduce glare by moving light sources or using a screen filter.
Nearly half of all eye injuries happen at home, not on a job site. Use safety glasses whenever a project might send debris flying or splash hazardous chemicals. Protective eye-wear may prevent 90% of sports-related eye injuries. Lenses should be made of polycarbonate plastic — which is 10 times more impact resistant than other materials. Some sports with the most injuries are baseball/softball, racket sports, lacrosse, and basketball.
If your eyes are itchy or red, soothe them with cold compresses, antihistamines, or eye drops. If you feel grittiness, like there’s sand in your eye, rinse with clean water or saline. See a doctor if symptoms continue, or if you have eye pain, secretions, swelling, or sensitivity to light. Other reasons to see a doctor: dark floating spots, flashes of light, or any time you can’t see normally.
Selecting the right frame is important and we’re here to help.
Selecting the right frame is important. It is essential that the lenses you choose compliment the frame and provide you with excellent and comfortable vision. Determine your face shape and flattering glasses will follow, it’s as simple as that.
Our style experts are ready to help. Visit your local Value Optical and we’ll help you find the right style for you and your lifestyle.
