9 ways to keep your eyes healthy

Millions of Americans may have undetected eye problems. One of the easiest things one can do to keep their eyes healthy is to schedule a comprehensive dilated eye exam.

This painless exam allows an eye care professional to examine the eye to check for early signs of diseases or conditions. But getting an eye exam is not the only way to keep your peepers happy.

Here are nine ways to keep your eyes healthy throughout your lifetime:

1. Get a dilated eye exam.
2. Know your family's eye health history.
3. Eat right to protect your sight—in particular, eat plenty of dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or collard greens, and fish that is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Maintain a healthy weight.
5. Wear protective eyewear when playing sports or doing activities around the home.
6. Quit smoking, or never start.
7. Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation.
8. Clean your hands and your contact lenses properly to avoid the risk of infection.
9. Practice workplace eye safety.

To learn more about protecting your eyesight, contact your primary physician.

Need a doctor?

Use Community Health Network's Find a Doctor tool to help you find a physician that is right for you.

Sources: National Eye Institute and CDC