Community Health Charities of Florida - April 2011

Whether you have 20/20 vision or need bioptics to see, taking care of your vision is a measure that should not be neglected. 

Follow these tips to keep your eyes looking and seeing their best:

Opt for the Optometrist. Don't wait until your renew your license to take a vision test. Common vision problems can go unnoticed and affect your overall health and wellbeing. Visit an eye doctor on a regular basis (at least every other year) to be sure you are aware of the health of your eyes. Many people don’t realize they could see better with glasses or contact lenses or have the wrong prescription. In addition, there are several eye diseases – such as glaucoma, diabetic eye disease and age-related macular degeneration – that often have no symptoms during their early stages. A dilated eye exam is the only way to detect these diseases early.

Be aware of inherited health. Genetic ophthalmologic researchers have confirmed that common vision problems and risk of eye disease are genetically determined. Knowing your eye health history is vital to knowing your risk for eye conditions. Early diagnosis can save your eyes with the right therapy and treatments.

Eat your carrots. We all know that carrots are good for your eyes, but there are many other fruits and vegetables that help maintain eye health. Dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or collard greens are also important for keeping eyes healthy. Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables of all colors, you can’t go wrong. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that the risk of cataracts can be lowered by eating 3 ½ servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Research has also shown there are eye health benefits from eating fish that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna and halibut.

Pairing a healthy diet with exercise will reduce the risk of obesity. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing diabetes and other systemic conditions, which can lead to vision loss and diabetic eye disease or glaucoma.

Physically protect your eyes. Wear protective eyewear when playing sports or when doing any work that puts your eyes at risk for physical injury. Protective eyewear includes safety glasses and goggles, safety shields and eye guards specially designed to provide the correct protection for a certain activity. When venturing outside, wear UV-rated sunglasses that block out 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation. Ultraviolet rays are extremely dangerous for the eyes. Pairing a brimmed hat with sunglasses offers even better protection.

Quit smoking. Smoking is a terrible habit that affects even your eyes. It is as bad for your eyes as it is for the rest of your body. Some research has linked smoking to an increased risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataract and optic nerve damage, all of which can lead to blindness.

Step away from the computer. If you spend a lot of time at the computer or focusing on any one thing, your eyes can get fatigued. To reduce eyestrain, try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look away about 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds.

Source: Prevent Blindness America