Are we taking our eyesight for granted?

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine what life would be like if you couldn't see. Take care of your eyes by going for regular eye exams, wearing sunglasses when exposed to UV rays and living a healthy lifestyle.

As with most things, prevention is better than cure when it comes to your eye health. Early problem detection means that you can start medical treatment earlier and prevent worsening of the problem. Signs of some eye diseases like glaucoma, cataract and Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), might be present before you notice symptoms.

It's best to see an optometrist before issues occur. However, if you experience any of the symptoms below, you should visit your optometrist as soon as possible:

• Trouble seeing objects close up or far away
• Colours that seem faded
• Poor night vision
• Double or multiple vision
• Loss of side vision
• Poor central vision or straight objects that look wavy
• Blurry text or type.

Look after your eyes with these helpful tips:

• See an optometrist regularly (if you're 60 or older)
• Don't smoke
• Use sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) rays
• Exercise regularly
• Eat healthy, especially leafy green vegetables and foods with omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna.

Appreciate your eyes and take care them, they are a gift.