Simple tips for strong, healthy vision

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Some say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but what about your eyes? Are there things you can you do to make sure your peepers are in perfect working order? Yes, lots.

For example, if you work at a computer a good portion of the day, you should take breaks often from staring at the screen. Also, to help avoid eye strain and dry eye, administer eye drops to lubricate your eyes frequently; that way they’ll stay moist.

Another way to keep your eyes in tip-top shape is by eating vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. Believe it or not, these foods support the blood vessels in your eyes. They also contain a high amount of vitamin C per calorie. Other vegetables that contain high levels of vitamin C include bok choy, cauliflower, papayas and strawberries.

Vitamin E is another “eye-friendly” vitamin. Vitamin E can be found in nuts and seeds, particularly almonds. There’s plenty of scientific research to suggest vitamin E can help slow age-related macular degeneration from getting worse. It may also help to combat cataracts. Not a fan of almonds? Try hazelnuts, peanuts or peanut butter instead.

Lastly, make sure that you schedule a preventive eye exam at least once every year. This is an easy and effective way to catch any potential problems before they get out of hand. It can also provide you with an updated prescription and helpful insights that will keep your vision healthy for years to come. The caring, knowledgeable professionals at Utah Eye Centers are here to help. Call them today to request an appointment!

 

 

How to care for your contact lenses (and why it matters)

29733506 - young woman putting eye contact lense onDo you know how to care for your contact lenses? Chances are, you have some questions. Most people do. But it’s important to ‘clear up’ any misconceptions, because keeping clean contacts is of top importance for maintaining good vision and healthy eyes.

So, how do you care for your contacts – and your eyes? Here’s a list of things you must know and do if you wear contacts:

  • It’s of utmost importance to keep your contact lenses clean. That means any time you touch the lens, or it comes out of your eye, you MUST clean it before putting it back in.
  • NEVER rinse you contact lenses with spit, tap water, or even ‘sterile’ bottled water. Only a clean, fresh, sterile saline solution will do. Don’t top off the solution in your case when cleaning – always start fresh.
  • Don’t sleep in your contacts. Also, you should ALWAYS take out your lenses before showering, swimming, or anything else that could get water in your eyes.
  • Always wash your hands with soap and water before touching contacts, and try to use a lint free towel. (The lint can get onto the lenses and be abrasive in your eyes.)
  • Use the ‘rub and rinse’ method to clean your contacts, even if the brand says it’s not necessary.
  • Keep your contact case clean, and replace it every 3 months.
  • Always follow the directions that come from your eye doctor about how to use and maintain your lenses.

It’s important to keep the lenses clean to prevent eye infections. You also want to avoid warped or damaged lenses, as they can damage your eyes.

Have questions about your vision, how to prevent eye damage, or need to talk through an issue? Please reach out to us at Utah Eye Centers! We can ‘clarify’ your options. We look forward to meeting with you!