Eye care is one of the most important aspects of a comprehensive health checkup. To supplement a good eye care routine, proper follow-ups and tests must be done periodically. Good knowledge of the family’s eye health history will further help doctors understand associated vision problems.
The information can prove to be useful in cases where there is a need for a laser eye surgery for vision correction or any related complications.

Proper diet
A well-balanced diet must mainly consist of green leafy vegetables, including kale, spinach, and collards that are rich in vital minerals and nutrients good for the eyes. Oily fish naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including salmon and tuna, non-meat proteins like nuts beans, and eggs must form a part of a nutritious daily diet. Intake of citrus fruits and juices rich in vitamin C also aids in better vision and eye health. A healthy diet may also help manage weight problems that lead to complications like type 2 diabetes, one of the leading causes of blindness in adults.

Avoid smoking
Smoking is not only bad for the lungs but can cause eye problems like cataract. Smoking gradually damages the optic nerve that results in macular degeneration. It might be difficult at first but the fear of losing vision completely will motivate people to kick the habit.

Maintain hygiene
Washing hands from time to time and maintaining general cleanliness is a part of the basic eye care regime. Infections are often a result of dirty hands coming in contact with the cornea or iris and rubbing it will only worsen the situation. Special care must also be taken while inserting and removing contact lenses as any particulate matter left behind will result in irritation.

Protective eyewear
Safety glasses, goggles, safety shields, and even eye guards are all basic forms of protective eyewear designed for a specific purpose. Protective eyewear is mandatory in certain working conditions to ensure workplace safety. The glasses are mostly made out of polycarbonate materials which is stronger than plastic and less fragile compared to glass.

Rest the eyes
Stress, staring at the computer screen for hours, or not blinking often can all cause vision problems, including eye strain, blurry vision, and dry eyes. Doctors recommend the 20-20-20 rule, wherein a person must look away from the computer screen after twenty minutes and stare at a fixed object at a distance of twenty feet for no more than twenty seconds. It is a simple routine that requires minimum time and efforts even during a busy work schedule.

Eye exam and checkup
Symptoms of common eye problems like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease are often difficult to identify. One must undergo a routine eye check-up in order to ensure proper treatment is administered in a timely manner to further prevent complications in such cases. It is advisable to plan regular checkups with ophthalmologists as they specialize in eye care to treat diseases and also perform surgeries.