Top tips for healthy eyes during National Eye Health Week 2018

It’s National Eye Health Week 2018 from 24 to 30 September. Here are our top tips on keeping your eyes healthy:

Have regular check-ups

Have your eyes tested at least every two years even if you think your vision is fine. An eye test can spot some eye conditions and other illnesses not related to sight, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and brain tumours. Find out if you are eligible for a free NHS eye test.

Find out your family eye health history

Talk to your relatives about your family eye health history. Some eye conditions have genetic links which increase your risk of developing them.

Wear sunglasses

Protect your eyes when it is sunny or when you’re in high glare areas such as near snow or water. Ongoing UV exposure can increase your risk of developing cataracts or possibly macular degeneration.

Protect your eyes

Don’t look directly at the sun and wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from injury.

Stop smoking

Smoking is harmful to your eyes and can increase the risk of sight loss. Current smokers are two to four times more at risk of developing macular degeneration than people who have never smoked.

Keep fit and healthy

Being fit and well can help your eyes stay healthy. Maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure may help with eye health.

Eat well

Make sure your diet includes nutrients such as Omega 3 fatty acids, zinc and vitamins C and E. These may help to delay age-related macular degeneration. Recommended foods for general good health include green leafy vegetables, oily fish such as salmon and citrus fruits.

And why not start by signing up for our free virtual event, which launched for National Eye Health Week. Join us on a journey to the centre of the eye, a 10k race which you can do in your own time and from any location.

Find out more about Fight for Sight’s virtual race.

For press enquiries:

For more information or to interview one of our spokespeople please contact the press office.

Direct line: 020 7264 3910; mobile 07921 828662 | E-mail: press@fightforsight.org.uk; Switchboard: 020 7264 3900