Eye Health
Learn how to protect your vision and keep your eyes healthy
If you have sudden vision changes or eye pain, see an eye doctor right away. This information is for learning only.
Why is Eye Health Important?
Your eyes help you see and understand the world around you. Good vision is important for daily activities like reading, driving, and working. Taking care of your eyes can help prevent vision problems and keep your eyes healthy as you age.
Common Eye Problems
- Refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism)
- Dry eyes
- Cataracts (clouding of the lens)
- Glaucoma (damage to the optic nerve)
- Macular degeneration (damage to the retina)
- Diabetic eye disease
Protecting Your Eyes
Protect from UV Light
Shield your eyes from harmful rays
- • Wear sunglasses that block 99-100% of UV rays
- • Choose wraparound styles for better protection
- • Wear a wide-brimmed hat outdoors
- • Protect eyes even on cloudy days
Reduce Screen Strain
Take care of your eyes when using devices
- • Follow the 20-20-20 rule
- • Keep screens 20-24 inches away
- • Adjust brightness to match surroundings
- • Blink more often to keep eyes moist
Eat Eye-Healthy Foods
Nutrition for better vision
- • Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- • Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- • Colorful fruits and vegetables
- • Nuts and seeds
The 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes...
20
Minutes of screen time
20
Feet away (look at something far)
20
Seconds of looking away
When to See an Eye Doctor
Regular Eye Exams
- • Ages 20-39: Every 2-3 years
- • Ages 40-54: Every 1-2 years
- • Ages 55-64: Every 1-2 years
- • Ages 65+: Every year
- • More often if you have risk factors
See an Eye Doctor Right Away If You Have:
- • Sudden vision loss or changes
- • Severe eye pain
- • Flashing lights or floating spots
- • Double vision
- • Eye injury
- • Curtain-like shadow in your vision
Eye Safety Tips
At Work
- • Wear safety glasses when needed
- • Use proper lighting
- • Take regular breaks from screens
- • Keep work area clean
At Home
- • Wear safety glasses for yard work
- • Keep chemicals away from eyes
- • Use good lighting for reading
- • Be careful with sharp objects
Playing Sports
- • Wear protective eyewear
- • Choose sport-specific protection
- • Make sure eyewear fits properly
- • Replace damaged protective gear