As we usher in a new year, the trusted Fredericksburg and Culpeper ophthalmologists at Vista Eye Specialists want to encourage you to make eye-friendly resolutions for better eye health. Don’t know where to start? Continue reading to learn simple ways you can have happier and healthier eyes.
Eat eye-friendly foods. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zeaxanthin, lutein and vitamin C can lower your risk of developing vision-threatening conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Don’t ignore eye symptoms. Eye pain, blurry vision, halos and other symptoms can be benign or may be signs of a serious eye condition. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and have these symptoms examined by an eye doctor immediately. If an underlying problem is detected, it can be treated promptly.
Protect your eyes from injuries. Every year, tens of thousands of patients visit the emergency room due to eye-related injuries (e.g., blunt trauma, eye socket fractures, corneal abrasions). It’s important to wear protective eye wear when playing contact sports or handling heavy machinery, chemicals and other objects or substances that can harm the eyes.
Wear sunglasses year round. Your eyes are at risk of sun damage year round. Research has linked overexposure to the sun to an increased risk of developing certain eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration and pterygium. Make it a habit to wear sunglasses that offer 100 UV protection whenever outdoors.
Take more breaks from digital devices. Staring at a computer, smartphone or tablet screen can result in bothersome symptoms known as digital eye strain. Symptoms include blurry vision, headaches, eye fatigue and neck or shoulder pain. To prevent digital eye strain, give your eyes a much-needed rest every so often.
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam. The best way to safeguard your eyes and vision from potentially serious conditions is by regularly seeing your eye doctor for an eye exam. Learn more about comprehensive eye exams.
For more tips on how to improve your vision and eye health, schedule an appointment with Vista Eye Specialists. Contact us by calling 1-888-EYE-JANI (393-5264) today.
