Healthy Eyes At Westgate Optical we have found that most people are not aware of what steps to take to prevent serious sight problems like Age-related Macula Degeneration, Cataracts or Diabetic Retinopathy. So we have put together some tips to help towards keeping your eyes healthy: Have regular eye checks You should visit Westgate Optical every two years or more if advised. In-between those appointments if you have any worries about your sight or eyes please do not hesitate to contact us for friendly and helpful advise. Mind the sun The sun can be very harmful to the eyes. It can damage the inside of the eye, maybe lead to cataracts and make the front of the eye sore and dry. Wear sunglasses that offer ultraviolet protection and consider wearing sun hats. You'll find an excellent range of prescription sunglasses at Westgate Optical, we also offer transition lenses which are perfect for the unexpected sunshine. Eat a healthy diet It really does make sense to keep to a healthy diet. Stick to a varied and balanced diet. Eating five portions of fruit and vegetable a day can help keep you and your eyes healthy. Research suggests that eating oily fish such as salmon and tuna twice a week can help prevent sight problems in later life. Watch your weight People who are overweight may be more likely to develop cataracts and macula degeneration. Obesity very often leads to diabetes. Diabetes can lead to serious sight problems. Keep to a healthy diet and reduce how much alcohol you drink. Exercise Having a healthy life style increases our circulation and maintains a healthy body. Healthy eyes need good circulation. Take breaks from your computer You should take short, frequent breaks from the computer to prevent eyestrain and tiredness. Even if you don’t have time to take a break away from your computer you should try to look away from your screen and focus something else within the room for a few seconds. Avoid touching your eyes Try to avoid touching your eyes, or rubbing them too much. Go to the GP if your eyes sting or are sore, if they weep or feel dry. Some eye infections are easily passed from person to person. Give up smoking Smokers are three to four times more likely to develop sight loss in later life. Smoking is linked to age-related macula degeneration and is linked to cataracts. Smoking can irritate eyes and lead to sore and inflamed eyes.