Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is just one of the eye ailments that can adversely impact quality of life. In a bid to help people do everything in their power to keep their eyes healthy, eye surgeon Dr. Keiki Mehta gave some tips in a recent edition of The Times of India.

According to the article, the Dr. Mehta said that it’s important that people safeguard their eyes from the sun. Using sunglasses that provide sufficient protection is necessary because they help to shied the eyes from harmful ultraviolet light rays, particularly UV-B. The article noted that UV-B can lead to problems such as AMD, cataracts and corneal changes. While sunglasses are important to protect the eyes, not all sunglasses are equal. This means that people need to specifically look for sunglasses that provide UV protection.

Dr. Mehta added that it’s important to get routine eye checkups. While people tend to be willing to look after their vehicles at recommended service intervals, the doctor explained that many people are not as serious when it comes to ensuring that their eyes are in tip top shape. And eye checkup, said Dr. Mehta, involves an exam to see whether or not there are any issues.

According to the article, the doctor added that people should avoid straining their eyes while they read. This means ensuring that the books they read are properly lit. In a best case scenario, the light would come over the reader’s left shoulder, said the doctor.

Dr. Mehta said in the article that people who want to safeguard their eye health should steer clear of smoking cigarettes since lighting up can boost the odds of getting AMD. People who both smoke and drink, said the doctor, can also increase their risks of getting optic nerve disorders. So those who smoke should stop and those who don’t should keep it up.

Among other things, Dr. Mehta also said that consuming antioxidant-rich foods can also promote proper eye health. For instance, Vitamin A, zeaxanthin, lutein and Omega-3 fatty acids can help people either to lower their odds of getting AMD or to slow down the progression of the disease.

This article is brought to you by PreserveMacForte.com.

Reference: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health/How-to-keep-your-eyes-healthy/articleshow/21648477.cms