Just as with other parts of your body, aging eyes may not function quite as well as they used to. You probably try to eat right and enjoy regular exercise to stave off many physical effects of aging. In the same way, you can take some positive steps to protect your vision. Along with regular eye exams, it’s particularly important to protect your eyes from the sun and pay attention to your nutritional needs.

Can Too Much Exposure To Sunlight Harm Eyes?

Years of over-exposure to UV light from the sun can damage vision in several ways. Consider these common kinds of eye problems that too much sunlight can aggravate:

* Cataracts: Scientific studies have demonstrated a link between direct UV light and cataract development. In the worst cases, cataracts can even cause blindness. Doctors can treat cataracts, but eye protection from direct sunlight can reduce the risk of ever developing them.

* Macular Degeneration: Scientists haven’t established a clear link between sunlight and macular degeneration. Still, they have enough evidence to believe avoiding exposure to bright light reduces risks. Since there’s no cure for this eye disease, most people will want to take precautions.

* Pterygium: Sometimes referred to as “surfer’s eye,” pterygium results in inflammation that causes itchy, dry eyes, a scratchy sensation, and excessive tearing. Doctors usually associate this eye condition with sun exposure, especially when abundant light gets reflected from water or snow.

Keratitis: Keratitis refers to a condition caused by overexposure to sunlight or sometimes, tanning beds. Similar to a sunburn, parts of the cornea can actually burn. If left untreated, keratitis can cause permanent vision problems.

How To Protect Vision And Stave Off Age-Related Vision Problems

You can continue to enjoy the great outdoors if you take some sensible steps to protect your eyes. The first solution’s as simple as purchasing a high-quality pair of sunglasses. Non-polarized sunglasses will reduce the amount of light that strikes you eyes. However, polarized sunglasses do a better job of shielding you from reflected light, so they’re a better choice if you like to spend time near snow and water.

The National Eye Institute has conducted large studies of age-related eye conditions. Out of this research, they have found that several nutritional supplements can protect vision and reduce the chance of developing eye disease.

These supplements include zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, copper, vitamin C, and vitamin E. It’s not always easy to make sure you include these nutrients in your diet every day. However, you can find affordable supplements that make it easy to feed your eyes the best possible diet.

Let Your Eye Doctor Help You Protect Your Eyes

Besides protecting your eyes and ensuring you provide your body with the right nutrition, it’s important to schedule regular eye exams. Even though protective measures can reduce risks and stave off age-related eye diseases, they can’t provide a 100-percent guarantee. If your eye doctor can catch problems early, he or she can make suggestions for treatment that will help you preserve your health and vision.