Those of us who need glasses or contacts to see know that exams are required to renew or update a prescription, but the truth is that everyone benefits from visiting the ophthalmologist once a year to check their eyesight.
Even if you’ve got perfect vision, annual eye exams are crucial to maintain healthy eyes. It’s easy to become complacent, but there are other things checked for aside from how well you can see—glaucoma, certain cancers, and even diabetes.
Aside from visiting an ophthalmologist & eye care specialist, there are other things you can do to maintain eye health and preserve your vision. Read on to learn about ways you might be harming your eyesight without realizing it, and how to best protect it.
Protect Your Eyes from the Elements
You only have one pair of eyes, and you want to make sure you protect them from any harm that could come to them. Too much exposure to the sun can be damaging along with hazards that may occur when performing certain tasks or working specific occupations. Be sure to wear sunglasses that protect against 99-100% of UV-A and UV-B radiation.
Many jobs can be dangerous to your eyes—factory work, construction, welding, and even home repairs can potentially produce sparking or flying debris that could get into your eyes, or worse, blind you. Those who work in laboratories are at risk from harmful chemicals. The best way to avoid a safety hazard is to wear protective safety goggles that can absorb any impact or splashing.
Eat A Healthy Diet and Get Regular Exercise
Of course, you should eat a healthy diet anyway, right? It’s important to get copious amounts of fruits and vegetables, limit simple carbs, and avoid excess sugars. These are all basic, common-sense staples of good nutrition. But there are some foods that can actually help maintain healthy eyesight such as carrots, green leafy vegetables, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and halibut.
It’s also important to exercise regularly to maintain good physical fitness. This can help avoid health conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, all things that threaten your eyesight. If you know this runs in your family, it’s even more critical to avoid developing these diseases.
Know Your Risk Factors and Get Screened
You may already know your family history regarding some health issues. Make sure you also know if anyone has suffered from glaucoma, diabetes, or other issues that can impact eyesight. Be sure to get regular preventative screenings from an ophthalmologist & eye care specialist as the earlier you catch something the better chance you have of treating it.
Give Your Eyes a Break
Blue light exposure from the screens we use every day is harmful to your eyes—give yourself a break! When possible, avoid excessive screen time and use a blue light filter when you can’t unplug. Don’t look at screens before going to bed as this can impact your sleep.
Above All, Don’t Forget Your Ophthalmologist and Eye Care Specialist
Your ophthalmologist and eye care specialist are there for you and want to help you maintain healthy eyesight. Make sure you visit them once a year for a check up. Your vision depends on it.