Every year, many people will make new years resolutions at the beginning of the new year. Whether it is to change your diet, exercise regularly or stay positive, maintaining good health should be at the top of the list. Your health not only pertains to having an annual exam from your primary care doctor, but also from your Carmel Eye Doctors as well.
A lot of people think they have healthy eyes because they do not have any issues or problems that they notice. However, there are many eye diseases that do not show any signs at all. That is why it is best to see your Carmel Eye Doctor, Dr. Amy Walden & Associates for a yearly exam. Scheduling a regular exam is not only great to keep your prescription recent, but also to spot signs of eye disease. If you’re wondering what steps you can take towards healthier eyes, take a look at our list:
10 Important Steps to Keep Your Eyes Healthy
Comprehensive Eye Exams
A comprehensive eye exam can detect the early stages of many eye diseases, which can, in turn, save your sight in the long run. Diabetic eye disease, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma oftentimes do not have any symptoms, especially in the early stage. That is why it is important to schedule an exam every year, regardless if you are experiencing any symptoms. Make sure to contact Carmel Eye Doctors Dr. Amy Walden & Associates today to set up an appointment.
Keep Track of Your Family History
Ask your family members about their eye history. It is important to know what potential eye diseases may run in your family since many are hereditary. If you are aware of any past history, this could help determine if you are at a higher risk of developing the same eye diseases.
Contact Lens Care
Follow the instructions your Carmel Eye Doctors give you on the wear and care of your contact lenses. Each lens has different instructions and length of wear and these will not only maintain your contact lens, but also protect your eyes. If you extend their wear length, use expired solutions or disposables and wear them overnight if they are not prescribed to be worn overnight, you can develop ulcers and even experience vision loss.
Wear Sunglasses
Protecting your eyes against harmful ultraviolet rays is imperative. Purchase sunglasses that block out 98-99% of both UV and UVB rays. Even in the winter months, your eyes are exposed to these rays. Photokeratitis is a burn on the cornea. This short term eye condition can be very painful but can be avoided by wearing sunglasses.
Healthy Eating Habits
Your diet plays a critical role in your eye health. Eating a diet that consists of leafy greens and vegetables can absorb nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Try to avoid sugary and fatty foods, this will reduce your risk of certain eye diseases such as diabetes, glaucoma and AMD.
Wear Eye Protection
Wearing protective eyewear can reduce your risk of an eye injury by 90%. Whether you are cleaning with chemicals, mowing the lawn, working on a home project or playing sports, your eyes are at risk of being damaged. Chemical splashing, flying debris, sports equipment hitting your eye can give you blurred vision, swollen, red, watery eyes and even more severe cause blindness. Buy protective eyewear for all your activities where your eyes are at risk.
Give Your Eyes a Break
Every one of us has some sort of interaction with a computer, television or mobile device throughout the day. Take the 20-20-20 rule into consideration when you are on these devices. Look up from your monitor every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away, for 20 seconds. In general, it is best to take a break from your work, etc. every 20 minutes. This can cause permanent eye damage and eye strain on your eyes if you are not careful.
Quit Smoking
Tobacco use is never a good idea for your overall health. Smoking can lead to AMD and the development of cataracts.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Over indulging in alcohol can lead to higher risks of developing AMD and cataracts.
Exercise
Like your brain, heart and lungs, your eyes are affected by the overall health of your body. Having a regular fitness routine can only benefit you by staying in shape and maintaining your body’s health. Glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and AMD have all been related to poor health.
Contact Carmel Eye Doctors Dr. Amy Walden & Associates To Learn More About Eye Health
These tips are an excellent start to protect the overall health of your eyes. Why not start 2016 on a healthy note! Contact us, your Carmel Eye Doctors, Dr. Amy Walden & Associates for an eye exam and follow the tips above to make some changes to improve your health.