January is all about new beginnings. Like many people, you probably made a resolution to live a healthier life this year. When it comes to your well-being, don’t forget your eyes! As any optometrist will tell you, it doesn’t take much to keep your peepers in good shape. Continue reading for simple steps to maintaining excellent eye health.

5 Optometrist Tips for Healthy Eyes

1. Quit Smoking

If you have a nicotine habit, here’s another reason to add quitting to your list of New Year’s resolutions! Smoking not only exacerbates dry eyes, but it has also been linked to ailments like age-related macular degeneration, which can lead to blindness if it isn’t treated.

2. Invest in Great Sunglasses

Too much sun is linked to a raft of eye diseases, from cataracts to cancer. If you don’t already have a pair, invest in high-quality sunglasses to protect yourself against UV rays. 

3. Don’t Abuse Your Contact Lenses

If you wear lenses, take proper care of them. Don’t re-use disposable lenses, make sure they are properly rinsed, and store long-term lenses. Finally, always take your contacts out before sleeping at night.

4. Address Dry Eye

From seasonal allergies to heating in the winter, many elements can lead to red, itchy eyes. If you find yourself simply “powering through” your dry-eye season, it’s time to take these warning signs more seriously. An eye doctor can prescribe special drops if over-the-counter remedies aren’t enough.

5. Get an Annual Checkup

Even if you have perfect vision, see your eye doctor once every year. They can check for changes in your eyesight and also find signs of diseases—like glaucoma—that may not yet have discernible symptoms.  

For top-quality eye care in Hawaii, look to Edwin Y. Endo, OD & Associates. This eye doctor and his team have a stellar reputation, which has earned them the recognition of “Best Optometrist” in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser on an annual basis. Discover their services online, or to schedule an appointment, call (808) 487-5500.