How teenagers can maintain good eyesight

As a young adult, the last thing you want to worry about is how to look after your eyes and eyesight.



But, as with many things in life, by looking after something early on, you and your body will reap the benefits later on in life.



From the classroom to the sports field, to driving a car and hanging out with your friends, follow these everyday eye-care tips to ensure your eyes remain comfortable and healthy.



Eating nutrient-rich foods and making sure you get adequate and consistent sleep each night will definitely support the health of your eyes.



Although there is nothing more delicious than junk food, it contains high levels of fat, sugar and salt.



Keep in mind that food that is high in fat causes deposits that can constrict blood flow in the arteries.



The eyes are especially affected as the blood vessels in the eye are already small in size and then suffer additional constriction.



Daily care



For many of you, the final examinations are just around the corner, so get those bodies moving. When blood circulation is increased, oxygen levels to the eyes improve and more toxins are removed.



After studying for 40 minutes, take a break, go for a walk, run, or take a short cycle ride.



If you are spending a lot of time outside due to sports, consider wearing sport-specific eyewear to protect against eye injuries while simultaneously helping your performance by improving your vision. Cool sunglasses will also protect you against harmful UV rays.



Follow basic tips like washing your hands regularly to avoid transferring germs, bacteria and dirt that could cause pink eyes (bacterial conjunctivitis) or even the common cold.



For young women, keep in mind not to share your make-up to avoid cross contamination.



For a teenager it is common to look at digital screens for hours on end, whether it is for homework or relaxation, but consider these safe-use habits:



• Blink frequently

• Take a break every 20 minutes to focus on an object 20 feet (six metres) away for 20 seconds

• Always keep your computer screen an arm's length away from your eyes

• Adjust lighting on the screen to minimise glare

• Use blue-light blocking spectacles

• Limit your screen time were possible



Last but not least, is an annual comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist to help detect any lurking issues, such as familial eye diseases.



As you prepare for your end-of-year examinations, keep these everyday eye care tips in mind to ensure comfortable, less strained eyes.

Good luck!