See Your Way to Better Eye Health

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Posted by: Missouri Eye Institute in Blog on May 13, 2025

Just like any valuable piece of equipment, your eyes need regular maintenance and the right care to function their best for years to come. That’s why initiatives like Healthy Vision Month in May are so important – they shine a spotlight on how we can all take better care of these incredible sensory organs. 

So, in honor of the month of minding your eyes, let’s dive into some simple yet powerful daily habits that can help you see your way to better eye health.

Why Proactive Eye Care Matters

Your vision is deeply intertwined with your overall well-being. Also, many eye conditions develop gradually, often without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. It’s about taking control of your eye health instead of reacting when problems arise. 

Fueling Your Eyes: The Power of Nutrition

Certain nutrients protect your vision from damage and support their function. 

• Lutein and zeaxanthin: These antioxidants, often found in leafy green vegetables, act like natural sunglasses, filtering out harmful blue light. 
• Vitamin A: This nutrient plays a crucial role in preventing night blindness and keeping your corneas healthy. Carrots aren’t just a myth – they’re a good source of vitamin A. It also occurs in sweet potatoes and dark leafy greens like spinach, as well as animal products such as liver, eggs and dairy. 
• Vitamin C: Helps protect against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Think citrus fruits and berries. 
• Vitamin E: This is another powerful antioxidant that helps protect eye cells from damage. Nuts and seeds are great sources. 
• Omega-3 fatty acids: These healthy fats, found in fish like salmon and tuna, can help prevent dry eyes.

Protecting Your Eyes in the Digital Age

Let’s face it, we’re all glued to our screens these days – phones, tablets, computers – you name it. While technology has its perks, it can also take a toll on our eyes if we’re not careful. Follow these rules to minimize discomfort:

The 20-20-20 Rule: Your Digital Break Reminder

Here’s a simple rule to remember: For every 20 minutes you spend looking at a screen, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. It’s like giving your eye muscles a mini-stretch break. Set a timer if you need to – your eyes will thank you.

Adjusting Screen Settings for Comfort

Adjust your screen settings to be kinder to your eyes. Try reducing the brightness, especially in low-light environments. You can also explore blue light filters, which may help reduce eye strain from prolonged screen use. Experiment and find what feels most comfortable for your eyes. 

The Bright Side: Sunlight and Eye Protection

Just like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can increase your risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration and even eye cancer. So, rain or shine, wear sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Don’t be fooled by dark lenses – it’s the UV protection that matters, not the tint. 

Hydration and Eye Health

Tears, which keep your eyes lubricated and comfortable, are mostly water. When you’re dehydrated, your body might not produce enough tears, leading to dry, irritated eyes. So, keep that water bottle handy and sip throughout the day.

Beyond Daily Habits: Essential Eye Care Practices

While daily habits form the foundation of good eye health, there are other essential practices you shouldn’t overlook. 

Regular Eye Exams

An eye doctor does more than just check your vision; they can also detect early signs of eye diseases and conditions that you might not be aware of. How often should you go? It depends on your age, health and risk factors, but generally, adults should have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years. 

Getting Enough Sleep

Just like the rest of your body, your eyes need adequate rest to function properly. When you sleep, your eyes get a chance to recover and rehydrate. Skimping on sleep can lead to tired, dry and irritated eyes. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your eyes feeling their best.

Proper Contact Lens Care (If Applicable)

If you wear contact lenses, proper care is crucial to prevent infections and other complications. This includes washing your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses, using the correct cleaning and disinfecting solutions and never sleeping in lenses that aren’t specifically designed for overnight wear. NOTE: If you choose permanent vision correction, such as LASIK, your risk of infections and injuries from contact lenses disappears.  

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to any changes in your vision and don’t ignore potential warning signs. Consult an eye doctor if you experience: 

• Blurred or double vision 
• Eye pain or discomfort 
• Redness or itching 
• Increased sensitivity to light 
• Floaters or flashes of light
• Difficulty seeing at night 
• Watery or dry eyes 

By understanding the importance of healthy vision and adopting these simple yet effective daily habits, you can actively protect your eyes and ensure they serve us well for years to come. So, this Healthy Vision Month, make a conscious effort to prioritize your eye health – because investing in your sight is truly investing in a brighter future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Healthy Vision Month?

Healthy Vision Month is an annual awareness campaign held every May by the National Eye Institute (NEI) in the United States. Its goal is to encourage people to prioritize their eye health through regular eye exams and healthy habits.

How often should I get my eyes checked?

The recommended frequency for eye exams varies depending on your age, health and risk factors for eye diseases. Generally, adults should have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years. However, your eye doctor can provide recommendations based on your individual needs.

Can diet really influence my vision?

Absolutely. A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins (like A, C and E), lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids can significantly contribute to good eye health and may help protect against age-related eye conditions.

What are some signs of eye strain?

Common signs of eye strain include headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, watery eyes, neck and shoulder pain and increased sensitivity to light. Taking regular breaks from screens and adjusting your workspace can help alleviate these symptoms.

Are blue light glasses necessary?

The evidence for the effectiveness of blue light glasses in preventing eye strain and long-term eye damage is still evolving. They may offer some individuals relief, especially those who spend long hours at a computer. You should also focus on good screen habits like comfortable lighting and frequent breaks.

Missouri Eye Institute has helped thousands of patients attain freedom from glasses and contact lenses, with convenient locations in Springfield, Joplin and Branson. Contact us at (800) 383-3831 to schedule a thorough consultation or visit MissouriEye.com to learn more about our services.