May is Healthy Vision Month. Make your eye health a priority this month. The National Institutes of Health has these tips to keep your eyes safe.

Get a dilated eye exam: This can detect eye diseases at an early stage when you have no symptoms. During a dilated eye exam, your eye care professional puts drops in your eyes to widen your pupils so he or she can get a good look at the back of the eyes. Early treatment of eye diseases like glaucoma can slow or stop vision loss and reduce your risk of blindness.

Use protective eyewear: Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. A hat offers great sun protection too!

Healthy lifestyle: Eat a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids. Limit drinks with a lot of caffeine and foods with a lot of salt. Drinking too much alcohol can also hurt your vision. Don’t smoke.

Screen time: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain. Every 20 minutes, shift your focus to an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Exercise and rest: Regular exercise improves blood flow to the eyes. Meanwhile, getting enough rest helps soothe tired eyes.

Source: OGB May Live Better Louisiana Newsletter