8 Tips To Take Care Of Your Eyesight :- 90% Of Vision Loss Can Be Prevented Or Treated

Regardless of where we are or what work we do, it is important to prioritize and protect eye health in the workplace, says the Spanish Society of Ophthalmology (SEO).

This includes everything from avoiding workplace accidents, which, according to ophthalmologists, are too often caused by or a consequence of poor vision, to productivity, which improves greatly when workers’ eye health is prioritized.

Ophthalmologists at the (SEO) remind us of the importance of attending ophthalmological check-ups periodically and not waiting for an emergency to arise to seek medical assistance.

According to IAPB data, around 160.7 million people suffering from moderate to severe vision loss were of working age and almost 9 out of 10 workplace eye injuries could have been prevented with appropriate safety glasses.

Eye health is essential and taking care of it at work is crucial to maintaining optimal vision throughout life.

That’s why SEO shares a series of tips to ensure your eyes are at their best while you work.

Adequate lighting: Make sure your workspace has adequate lighting. Natural light is the best option, but if you work indoors, use artificial lighting without glare or shadows on your screen or work area. SEO reminds us that, according to the TFOS Lifestyle and Ocular Surface published in May in The Ocular Surface magazine (display screens), there is no scientific evidence that blue light filter glasses prevent eye fatigue, so it is not necessary to use them.
Visual ergonomics: If your work involves screens, position the monitor so that it is at eye level and a distance of about 50-70 centimeters. This will help reduce eye strain and eye fatigue.
Regular breaks: Practice the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps relax your eyes and prevent eye strain.
Blink frequently: Blinking helps keep the surface of your eye moist and protected. When you’re working in front of a screen, you may blink less, which can lead to dry eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more often.
Protection in hazardous occupations: If you work in occupations such as construction, carpentry, or any environment where your eyes may be exposed to hazards, make sure you always wear appropriate protective eyewear. Eye safety is essential to prevent serious injuries.
UV Protection: If you work outdoors or near windows, remember that UV rays can damage your eyes. Wear sunglasses with UV protection to protect them from the harmful effects of the sun.
Regular exams: Schedule regular eye exams with your ophthalmologist. Detecting vision problems early is essential to prevent potential complications.
Hydration and diet: Drink enough water to keep your eyes hydrated and eat a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for eye health.

90% of vision loss can be prevented or treated

At least 771 million people (90%) have vision loss that can be prevented or treated, reports the Spanish Society of Ophthalmology.

Uncorrected refractive error is the major cause of vision loss. For these individuals, vision can be restored with appropriate glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness, and 100 million people worldwide suffer vision loss from cataracts. For these people, vision can be restored with cataract surgery. Rates of vision impairment and blindness from cataracts are higher in women (1.7%) than in men (1.4%).

Age-related macular degeneration is the third leading cause of vision loss (More than 8 million people have vision loss due to AMD). For every person who experiences vision impairment and blindness from AMD, there are many more living with early-stage AMD who need comprehensive, integrated, people-centered eye care services to prevent vision loss.

Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy are the fourth and fifth causes, respectively, that can cause vision loss, followed by other eye problems such as neglected tropical diseases like trachoma and onchocerciasis, macular degeneration from myopia and other retinopathies or corneal opacities.