Keep an Eye On Your Vision: Tips for Healthy Vision Month

Keep an Eye On Your Vision: Tips for Healthy Vision Month

Each May, we celebrate Healthy Vision Month and it offers a great opportunity to learn about eye health and to make sure you and your family recognize the importance of regular comprehensive eye exams as a way to maintain overall eye health.

One of the goals of Healthy Vision Month is to encourage people of all ages to take proactive measures to protect their vision and address potential vision problems early, before they can become big issues affecting your eyesight permanently. It’s easy to take our vision for granted, but vision is arguably the most important of the five senses, and any type of vision loss can significantly impact your quality of life.

Here are some tips to help keep your eyes in top shape:
 

1.     Get regular eye exams: Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good eye health. Annual exams can detect potential problems before they become serious issues, and they can also identify health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure before they become bigger issues later in life.

2.     Protect your eyes from the sun: UV rays from the sun can damage the eyes, so it's important to wear sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection when you are outside. Additionally, wearing a hat with a brim can help block out some of the sun's harmful rays.

3.     Take breaks when using digital devices: Spending extended periods in front of a computer or other digital device can cause eye strain, which can lead to headaches and blurred vision. To prevent eye strain, take regular breaks, look away from the screen every 20 minutes, and blink frequently to keep your eyes lubricated.

4.     Eat “eye-friendly” food: A healthy diet is crucial for maintaining good eye health. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce the risk of eye diseases including macular degeneration and cataracts. Some foods that are good for eye health include leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and fatty fish.

5.     Avoid smoking: Smoking is linked to a higher risk of several eye diseases, including macular degeneration and cataracts. Quitting smoking can reduce your risk of these diseases and improve overall health.

6.     Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes, and avoid sharing towels or other personal items that may come into contact with the eyes. Doing this simple step will greatly help prevent eye infections.

Maintaining healthy vision not only benefits your vision, but your overall health. By scheduling regular eye exams in addition to physical exams, your healthcare providers can work together to make your vision last a lifetime! Call us today to schedule your annual exam!