Eye Problems, Noninjury: Prevention

Content provided by Healthwise

Prevention

Take good care of your eyes to prevent eye problems.

• Injuries from ultraviolet (UV) light can be prevented by wearing sunglasses that block UV rays and by wearing broad-brimmed hats. Be aware that the eye can be injured from sun glare while boating, sunbathing, or skiing. Use eye protection while you are under tanning lamps or using tanning booths. There is no proof that laser pointers cause eye injury.
• Wear goggles or protective glasses when you are handling chemicals, operating power tools, hammering nails, or playing sports that involve a risk of a blow to the eye, such as racquetball or hockey.
• Wear goggles or protective glasses at all times if you have only one functional eye.
• Be a good example to your children by wearing goggles or protective glasses when needed at work or play.
• Get periodic vision checkups:
  • Every 2 years if you wear glasses.
  • Every 5 years if you don't wear glasses.
  • If you have a family history of eye disorders, diabetes, or a diagnosed vision disorder, such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. Have your vision checked according to the schedule your eye care professional recommends.
• If you wear contact lenses, take good care of them. See caring for contact lenses.
• Keep your blood pressure under control. High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels that supply blood to the eye.

People who have diabetes are at risk for a vision problem called diabetic retinopathy which is a complication of having high blood sugar over a long time. People who have diabetes need regular eye exams so that the early stages of diabetic retinopathy can be detected and in some cases treated. They also need to keep their blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible to prevent blood vessel damage from long-term high blood sugar.

It is important to protect your children's vision. Regular eye exams identify problems early and corrective measures can be taken. Watching a lot of television, playing video games, or frequent computer use can decrease your child's natural blink reflex, which can cause dry, red, and irritated eyes.

For tips on how to prevent eye infections, see the topic Pinkeye.

For tips on how to prevent eye injuries, see the topic Eye Injuries.

E-mail This | Print This Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Last updated:	December 13, 2005
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Ian MacDonald, MDCM, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Lila Havens