Your eyes are working hard every day, but how often do you really think about looking after them? Between work, screens and general day-to-day demands, it’s no surprise that our eyes can feel tired, dry or strained. The good news is that eye care doesn’t need to be complicated. Just a few small habits can go a long way in keeping your vision sharp and your eyes comfortable.
Pay Attention to Your Lighting
It might seem like a small thing, but the lighting you use throughout the day has a big impact on how your eyes feel. Working under harsh or dim lighting can make your eyes work harder, especially if you’re reading or using a computer. Natural light is always best where possible, so if you can, position your desk near a window. At night, try to use soft, warm lighting that’s easy on the eyes.
If you’re spending hours in front of a screen, remember to take regular breaks. The 20-20-20 rule is a good habit to get into: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It sounds simple, but it helps give your eyes a proper rest.
Stay Hydrated – Inside and Out
Many of us don’t realise how much our eyes depend on hydration. If you’re not drinking enough water, your eyes can start to feel dry or gritty. Central heating, air conditioning, and long hours on screens can all make it worse.
Keeping a bottle of water nearby is an easy start, but it’s not just about how much you drink. If you wear contact lenses, it’s especially important to take care of them properly. Always follow the guidance from your optician when it comes to cleaning and wear time. If your lenses often leave your eyes feeling dry or uncomfortable, it might be worth asking about other options that suit your eyes better.
There are also products that can help, preservative-free eye drops, soothing sprays, and even warm compresses can offer real relief if your eyes are often irritated.
Eat Well for Your Eyes
What you put on your plate matters for your vision too. Certain nutrients are known to support eye health, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, and zinc. You’ll find these in foods like oily fish, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and oranges.
Of course, life gets busy, and it’s not always easy to get everything through food. That’s where a well-formulated eye supplement can help. Look for ones that include ingredients like lutein and zeaxanthin – these are antioxidants that help protect the eyes, particularly as we get older. Just think of supplements as a boost, not a substitute for healthy eating.
A Word on Professional Eye Care
While these habits make a big difference day to day, it’s still important to see a professional ophthalmologist regularly. Even if your eyesight feels fine, an eye test every couple of years helps spot issues early, some conditions develop gradually and without pain, so they can go unnoticed if you don’t get checked.
If anything ever feels off, whether it’s blurriness, unusual dryness, or something you can’t quite put your finger on, don’t ignore it. Book in with your optometrist or ophthalmologist. The sooner any problems are picked up, the better the outcome is likely to be.
Taking care of your eyes doesn’t have to be a chore. With a few simple habits and regular check-ups, you can keep them feeling comfortable and working well for years to come.
