Four simple ways to protect your eyesight

Don’t be blind to the risks that may affect your vision, with our Ophthalmologist’s top tips for maintaining your eye health.

Eye health essentials from Chemist Warehouse
Shop for eye care essentials at Chemist Warehouse.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare says more than half of Australians have a long-term eye condition as a result of environmental and genetic factors.

“For adults, cataract, macular degeneration and glaucoma are all preventable eye diseases, while for children it is penetrating eye injury,” ophthalmologist Dr Caroline Catt says.

“Macular degeneration, if you have the wet form, is treatable with lifelong injections, but if you suffer the dry form it is not reversible.”

“Cataracts can be treated with surgery and glaucoma can be treated if caught early enough, but unfortunately symptoms don’t often show up until it’s too late, so it is imperative to get eyes checked every two years,” Dr Catt says.

How to protect your eyesight

When it comes to protecting your eyes, the best thing adults can do is not smoke.

“Being a non-smoker reduces the risk of several eye diseases including macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy,” Dr Catt says.

Eating a balanced diet can also protect your sight.

“A healthy diet high in green and gold veggies, omega 3, fish oil, vitamin A and lutein all help with eye health.”

The other key thing you can do to protect your eyes is wear sunglasses.

“UV exposure is detrimental to eye health, particularly reflective light, where light bounces off surfaces such as water, sand and even snow. Wearing a hat is also helpful as it minimises light getting in under your sunglasses,” Dr Catt says.

“Look for sunglasses that comply with Australian standards; they will have AS1067 certification or be labelled UV 400,” she says.

For children, the biggest risk to sight is suffering a penetrating eye injury.

“Penetrating eye injury from sharp objects is the leading cause in blindness in children, so ensure that all play is safe play,” Dr Catt says.

She recommends avoiding sticks and sharp toys and ensuring your child is wearing a hat and sunnies outside. Magpie swoops is another common cause for children being admitted into hospital with eye trauma.

Dr. Catt’s top tips for eye health

  • Don’t smoke
  • Eat your veggies
  • Wear sunglasses and a hat
  • Have an eye test at least every two years
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