May is Healthy Vision Month
When it comes to our health, the eyes may not be the first thing we think of. But, it’s important to protect our eyes today so we can enjoy healthy vision for years to come. Plus, our eye health is tied to other parts of the body. As such, vision problems may be a warning sign that your overall health is suffering. That’s why vision centers all over the country, including Looking Glass Optical, recognize Healthy Vision Month in May. And, this month is the perfect time to take stock of your vision. To learn more about maintaining proper eye health, see our tips below.
Get an Eye Exam
Getting an annual eye exam is one of the easiest ways to take care of your vision health. Specifically, comprehensive dilated eye exams, which allow eye doctors to catch potential problems early on. For example, the exam will help your doctor diagnose diseases, like dry eye and glaucoma, and determine whether you may need vision correction (e.g. glasses, contacts, etc).
Additionally, it’s important to have your eyes checked on a regular basis. And, if you suffer from certain medical conditions, you may need to visit an eye doctor more often. For instance, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, poor heart health, and other conditions can lead to vision problems. As always, make sure to visit an eye doctor if you notice any vision changes or new symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), some common symptoms of eye problems include decreased vision, eye pain, drainage, redness, double vision, and seeing floaters.
Know Your Family History
Our family history plays a significant role in overall eye health. Does anyone in your family have an eye condition? As we get older, we’re more likely to develop vision problems. Especially between the ages of 40 and 60. Even so, people of all ages are susceptible to poor vision and eye conditions. So, dig into your family history and learn more about the conditions you come across, such as:
- Cataracts – Cloudy lens and vision loss
- Astigmatism – An irregular curvature of the eye’s lens
- Macular Degeneration – Age-related vision loss
- Glaucoma – Gradual loss of sight due to increased pressure in the eye
- Lazy Eye – Abnormal visual development
Tips for Keeping Your Eyes Healthy
Since it’s Healthy Vision Month, there’s no better time than the present to start practicing healthy eye habits. The best place to start? Exercising regularly and eating a balanced, healthy diet. Specifically, be sure to eat extra leafy greens and fish and squeeze in extra workouts. Also, follow the guidelines below to keep your eyes healthy and protected:
- Don’t smoke
- Wear sunglasses outside
- Use safety goggles at work
- Don’t sleep with your contacts in
- Wash your hands before handling your contacts
- Get up-to-date prescriptions
- Avoid eye strain from light and computer screens
- Be careful applying makeup
Are you already doing some or all of these things? Good for you! If not, it’s never too late to start taking care of your eyes. And, Looking Glass Optical is here to help you keep your eyes healthy and strong. Make your appointment during Healthy Vision Month at Looking Glass Optical online. Or, give us a call at 410-768-0202.
Share