Many adults and children suffer from eye diseases and vision problems. Many of these maladies can be prevented. Some can have their vision restored medically and through healthy vision habits. If you want to celebrate National Healthy Vision Month this May, follow our tips for your eyes.
Healthy Diet
Vitamin A is so necessary to good sight. Carrots are a high source of this vitamin, as are some other foods. When you consume vitamin supplements targeted for eye health and/or eat a diet rich in foods that are good for your eyes, you retain the vision you have and sometimes even make your vision better. Healthy eating prevents other illnesses that can affect your sight too.
Eye Protection
The sun, while necessary to regulate your circadian rhythm and sleep, can actually cause many vision maladies. Protecting your eyes with sunglasses recommended or sold by your eye doctor stops harmful rays from damaging your retinas. Wear sunglasses every time you go outside, even if the sun isn’t shining or doesn’t seem that bright. It’s not always what you can see that can hurt your vision.
See Your Eye Doctor Once a Year (or More Often When There’s an Emergency)
Most patients should see their eye doctors once a year. Your eye doctor can detect changes in your vision, find diseases if they are present, and/or detect other eye and vision problems. You may get glasses as part of your eyecare. You should wear your glasses as prescribed.
If your vision changes very suddenly, see your eye doctor right away, or as soon as you are able. If it’s after business hours and an emergency, you should go to the emergency room where they can hopefully call in an ophthalmologist to diagnose and treat your sudden eye and vision issues.
Since it’s May and Healthy Vision Month, why not schedule an appointment with an eye doctor now? We’d love to see you at Advanced Eyecare of Chino Optometry!