One of the very best things you can do for your eyes is to see an optometrist for regular checkups. This will ensure that any problems are caught early when they are easiest to treat. However, seeing an optometrist is just one step in the eye care process. There are also some important ways you can and should care for your eyes between optometry appointments. Check them out, below:

Wear your sunglasses.

Sunglasses are not just an aesthetic accessory. They are designed to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, which can help reduce your risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye diseases over the years. Make sure you are wearing sunglasses that block UV rays; some fashion sunglasses do not. When in doubt, buy sunglasses from your eye doctor's office. They generally only carry models with truly protective lenses. If you are someone who forgets your sunglasses often, consider buying two pairs so you can keep one in your car or bag for on-the-go use. 

Block blue light on your screens.

These days, screen time can be impossible to avoid. You may work behind a computer screen and also use your phone to check your email, the weather, and so forth. In a perfect world, you would reduce your screen time to protect your eyes. But if you can't do that, at least turn down the blue tones on your screens. Blue light is the harshest on the eyes. If your screens are giving off predominantly red-toned light, your eyes will experience less fatigue overall. If you have devices that don't allow you to block blue light, consider buying a pair of computer glasses. They block blue light while letting red and other colors through.

Avoid smoking.

Smoking is terrible for your eye health. It increases your risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and so many other conditions. If you are a smoker, work on quitting. There are prescription medications that can really help, so consider talking to your doctor about one. If you are not a smoker, do not start. Cigarettes are really addictive, and it's easier to just not try them than to have to quit a few months or years from now.

If you avoid smoking, limit your exposure to blue light from screens, and also wear your sunglasses, you'll be taking pretty good care of your eyes. Ask your optometrist if they have any more personalized advice to offer.