5 Tips for Optimizing Your Eye Health and Vision

May 16, 2022 | Eye Health

Your eyesight plays a valuable role in contributing to your overall quality of life. Clear vision is precious and provides you with the opportunity to engage in life to the fullest. May is Healthy Vision Month, as designated by The National Eye Institute (NEI). As such, we are sharing our top five tips for maintaining optimal eye health.

 

1. Know Your Risk for Eye Disease

As you age, your risk for vision loss from a variety of eye conditions and diseases increases. Macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy are a few that may cause eye health complications. Learn your family’s eye health history, as well as any history of diabetes or high blood pressure, to know if you may be at higher risk for developing certain eye diseases.

2. Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Did you know that a heathy diet doesn’t just affect your waistline? It impacts your eye health too! We encourage you to make good nutrition choices to support the health of your eyes. Colorful fruits and vegetables, including dark leafy greens, are especially helpful when it comes to vision health. According to the American Optometric Association, many studies have shown that key vitamins and nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, and essential fatty acids can help slow the progression of eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, and support proper visual development.

Other healthy choices, such as getting regular exercise and not smoking, contribute to your overall eye health as well. Since many eye diseases are related to high blood pressure and diabetes, exercise can help improve these conditions and thereby improve your vision health.

3. Protect Your Eyes

When engaging in activities where your eyes may be at a greater risk for injury—such as playing sports, construction or machinery work, yard work, or house chores—wear protective eyewear. It may sound simple but protecting your eyes from injury is one of the most effective ways to maintain vision health and avoid eye damage.

Wearing suitable eye protection also applies to time spent in the sun. To protect your eyes from potentially harmful UV rays of the sun, wear quality sunglasses that block 100% of both UV-A and UV-B rays. Ask us about our prescription sunglass options. At Lawrenceville Family Eyecare, we carry a wide assortment of sunglass lenses for individuals of every life stage. Sun protection is important, regardless of age. We are happy to help you find the perfect pair that protects your eyes.

4. Schedule Regular Comprehensive Eye Exams

Just like the rest of your body, your eyes require routine checkups to ensure they are being cared for properly. When it comes to healthcare, many people neglect their eyes, often missing issues that, if left unchecked, could be detrimental. The sooner a potential issue is uncovered, the more quickly and thoroughly it can be addressed and resolved. Taking care of your overall health should include regular comprehensive eye exams. If it’s been over a year since your last eye exam, contact us today to schedule your next exam at our office.

5. Stay Attentive to Your Vision Changes

As you age, your eyes will change. Paying attention to these changes and getting regular exams will help you stay ahead of any potential problems. Changes in vision can often be addressed with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, if you are experiencing sudden changes in your vision such as redness, irritation, pain, flashes of light, or blurry vision, these may be signs of a problem that needs immediate attention. Call our office right away if you suspect you may need urgent eye care.

 

We Prioritize Your Eye Health

Dr. Medhi Kazem and our team at Lawrenceville Family Eyecare take great care in providing you with outstanding eye care. As we celebrate Healthy Vision Month, it is our privilege to support you in your pursuit of optimal eye health!