Introduction
Many things can affect your vision. Aging, allergies and even staring into a computer screen for long periods of time may cause eye strain, redness and irritation. You can keep your vision clear and health problems to a minimum by taking the vitamins that improve your eyes' health. Most of the vitamins and nutrients you need come from your diet, but this may not be enough. You may take over-the-counter supplements that contain nutrients your eyes need. Your doctor may even prescribe a supplement if you have eye problems. However, it is important to know exactly what each vitamin does and how it may affect your overall health.
History
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a nutrient that may improve the way your eyes utilize light. Your eyes adjust to light as you enter into bright rooms or sunlight. Vitamin A helps your eyes perform this function every day. The vitamin may also improve the moisture level in the eyes' tissue and mucous membranes. Without sufficient vitamin A, your eyes may not produce enough moisture to prevent dryness and irritation. You may take this nutrient through supplements or by eating healthy fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes and watermelon.
Lutein
Lutein is another nutrient said to increase good eye health. This antioxidant may promote healthier vision by protecting against free radicals that cause cellular damage. If you experience poor vision, you may need to eat fresh yellow peppers, leafy green vegetables and citrus fruits.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is not just for protecting you from illness. It may also help improve the way your eyes function by preventing damage to the cells in your eyes. You find this vitamin in certain fruit and vegetables. You can take supplements such as vitamin C drops and powdered mixes.
Features
Most eye problems can be treated, in most cases, by an eye specialist. If you experience symptoms, like blurred vision or pain, your doctor may order or perform certain eye tests to find the cause of your symptoms. This is important if you have a degenerative condition or disease that may trigger vision problems. If the doctor finds that your symptoms come from the lack of the vitamins you need for good eye health, he or she may prescribe supplements. This is something your eye doctor will discuss with you.
Tips and comments
Tip #1: Keep in mind that poor vision is not necessarily caused by the lack of vitamins. Other health issues may contribute to poor vision, eye pain or drainage.
Tip #2: See an eye doctor once or twice a year to locate any potential problems early. If you are older, you may need to see your eye specialist several times during the year.
Tip #3: Report any abnormal drainage, pain or other symptom to your doctor right away. Symptoms may be a sign of allergies, cellular damage or disease; however, not every symptom leads to these things.
Tip #4: Do not take more than the vitamins recommended on the product label if taking over-the-counter supplements. If taking a prescription supplement, be sure to take the medication or supplement as directed.
