May is Healthy Vision Month

By: Dr. Dannelle Chung

Our eyes are among the most important organs in our body. They provide us with the sense we value most, sight, yet they are often overlooked when it comes to overall health and wellness. In 2003, the National Health Institute designated May as Healthy Vision Month to encourage people to prioritize eye health and raise awareness about ways to keep their eyes healthy and safe.

Good vision does not always mean healthy vision. However, most people only start prioritizing their eyes when they notice they are having more difficulty seeing clearly. Even then, many individuals focus solely on getting glasses or contact lenses to correct their vision rather than ensuring their overall eye health is in good condition. According to a national survey conducted by the National Eye Institute, approximately 23 million American adults have never had an eye exam because they do not believe they have an eye problem. However, many serious eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and macular degeneration, do not present symptoms in their early stages and can go undetected for many years without an eye exam. By 2030, it is estimated that approximately 11.4 million people will have diabetic retinopathy, 4.2 million will have glaucoma and 3.7 million will have age-related macular degeneration. Early prevention, detection, and treatment is critical to preserve vision and minimize the effects these diseases can have on the eye.

Beyond these conditions, other common eye health concerns, such as digital eye strain and dry eyes, are becoming more prevalent due to updates in technology and prolonged screen use. Studies have shown that making healthy choices, getting regular eye exams, and being proactive in your eye care can help protect your vision and maintain eye health for years to come.

Ways to Protect Your Vision

1. Get a Comprehensive Eye Exam: An eye exam is the only way to ensure your eyes are healthy and that you see and feel your best, even if you believe your vision is perfect. It should be performed annually as a preventative measure, just like regular check-ups with your primary care doctor.

2. Live a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular physical activity benefits eye health by improving circulation and reducing the risk of conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which can lead to retinal damage and vision loss. Diet also plays a crucial role in eye health. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc and vitamins C and E, that are found in fish and dark leafy green vegetables, help reduce the risk of age-related eye problems. Additionally, avoiding smoking is essential. Smoking is as bad for your eyes as it is for the rest of your body and increases the risk of cataracts, optic nerve damage and macular degeneration. Keeping your overall health in check contributes to long-term visual wellness.

3. Know your Family History: Talk to your family members to determine if any eye diseases run in your family. Genetics plays a role in eye conditions, including nearsightedness, glaucoma, macular degeneration and other retinal disorders. Knowing your risk factors allows you to take preventative measures.

4. Wear Sunglasses: UV rays from the sun, whether the sun is shining brightly or hidden behind clouds, can contribute to the formation and progression of cataracts and macular degeneration over time. Protect your eyes by choosing sunglasses that block out both UVA and UVB radiation.

5. Protect your eyes in the digital age: With screens dominating our daily lives, digital eye strain has become a common issue. Symptoms include dryness, headaches, eye fatigue and blurred vision. To combat this, follow the 20-20-20 rule - every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break and look at something 20 feet away. Additionally, prescribed computer lenses with blue light filters can also reduce strain, especially for those who spend long hours on digital devices for work or school.

Taking care of your eyes isn’t just about seeing clearly - it’s about preserving your vision for life. By adopting healthy habits and scheduling annual eye exams, you can reduce your risk of eye diseases and maintain optimal vision. Your future self will thank you for the effort you put in today.

Contact the experts at eyeXam, www.eyexam.com