A New Year has arrived here in Tampa Bay, and it’s an excellent time to refocus on eye care. Here are a few practical resolutions to care for your eyes in 2024:
#1: Limit Screen Time and Take Screen Breaks.
Many Tampa Bay residents spend several hours a day looking at a computer or phone screen. With one of the nation’s highest rates of tech employment and a high percentage of remote workers, many Floridians are particularly susceptible to extensive screen time.
Screen time can fatigue your eye muscles, contribute to eye strain, and even cause dry eyes. So, try to limit it as much as possible, especially if it’s not required for your work.
To further reduce eye strain, try the 20/20/20 rule: After 20 minutes of screen time, look at something around 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
#2: Learn Your Family History of Eye Disease.
Certain eye diseases, like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration, are thought to have a genetic component. Understanding your family history of eye disease and relaying this information to your Tampa area ophthalmologist can help you detect signs of a problem as early as possible.
#3: Boost Your Intake of Leafy Greens and Omega-3 Fatty Acids.
Dark leafy greens and carrots are excellent sources of lutein and zeaxanthin, two essential nutrients for ocular health. Increasing your intake of these nutrients, either through food sources or supplements, can help reduce your risk of macular degeneration and improve the overall health of your eyes.
Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids may lower your risk of high eye pressure, which can contribute to glaucoma. These fatty acids are found in cold-water fish, as well as nutritional supplements.
#4: Schedule Your Annual Eye Exam in Tampa.
Scheduling an annual eye exam in Florida, whether you have pressing eye concerns or not, is an important step to protect your long-term vision. Your Tampa Bay eye doctor can evaluate your eyes, identify early signs of eye disease, and suggest lifestyle adjustments or treatments to improve your ocular health.
Book your annual eye exam today at The Eye Clinic of Florida, serving Zephyrhills, Tampa, and the surrounding areas.