Eye Care

Source: MedlinePlus Health Topics, U.S. National Library of Medicine

Last synced 8/14/2026Status: primary verified

Why does eye care matter? Eye care is about keeping your eyes healthy through good daily habits, regular checkups, and treatment when needed. Your eyes are an important part of your health. You rely on them every day to see and understand the world around you. Some eye diseases can lead to vision loss without early warning signs, so it's important to catch them as soon as possible. Get your eyes checked as often as your health care provider recommends, or if you notice new vision problems. Just like caring for the rest of your body, it's important to keep your eyes healthy. How can I keep my eyes healthy? There are many things you can do to protect your eyes and see your best: Give your eyes a rest. Spending long hours on a computer or other digital screens can make you blink less, causing dryness and tired eyes. To reduce eyestrain, try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look away about 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds. Wear sunglasses. Sun exposure can damage your eyes and raise your risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration . Protect your eyes by using sunglasses that block out 99 to 100% of both UV-A and UV-B radiation. Wear protective eyewear . To prevent eye injuries , you need eye protection when playing certain sports, working in jobs such as factory work and construction, and doing repairs or projects in your home. Avoid rubbing your eyes. Rubbing your eyes can transfer dirt and bacteria that may cause irritation or lead to an infection . Use good lighting. Brighten your space to reduce strain and help you see comfortably. If you wear contacts, take steps to prevent eye infections. Wash your hands before you put in or take out your contact lenses. Also follow the instructions on how to properly clean them and replace them when needed. How can my nutrition and lifestyle habits affect my eye health? What you eat and how you take care of your body can have a big impact on your eyes and vision: Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Your diet should

Educational only

This information is for general education and is not medical advice. Always talk to a licensed U.S. clinician about your situation, medications, or treatment decisions.