Every year in March we recognize Workplace Eye Wellness Month. To shed light on the importance of eye care, we spoke with Dr. Anna Shagas, our low-vision optometrist at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Here’s what she shared about how to protect and maintain healthy vision.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Routine eye exams are essential for early detection and management of various eye conditions. According to Dr. Shagas, certain signs in the eye can indicate underlying health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes. A dilated eye exam allows eye care professionals to check for these signs and recommend necessary medical attention. If there is a family history of eye conditions, scheduling routine checkups is even more crucial.
When to Contact an Eye Care Provider
If you experience any sudden changes in vision or feel something is off with your eyes, don’t delay in reaching out to an eye care provider. Early detection and prompt treatment can make a significant difference in preserving your vision.
The Importance of Wearing Prescription Glasses and Contact Lenses
Wearing the correct prescription glasses or contact lenses ensures optimal visual acuity and function. In children, early use of proper correction can prevent conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye) from worsening. Keeping up with your prescription and wearing your corrective lenses as advised by your optometrist is key to maintaining good vision.
Managing Diabetes for Eye Health
For individuals with diabetes, maintaining stable blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels is vital. High blood sugar increases the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, which is the leading cause of blindness among working-age adults.
Foods That Promote Eye Health
A healthy diet can positively impact eye health. Dr. Shagas highlights research from the American Academy of Ophthalmology, which suggests that a diet low in fat and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains benefits both heart and eye health. Essential nutrients for eye health include:
- Vitamin A (Carrots, sweet potatoes)
- Vitamin C (Citrus fruits, bell peppers)
- Vitamin E (Almonds, avocados)
- Lutein & Zeaxanthin (Leafy greens like spinach and kale)
The Connection Between Body Mass Index (BMI) and Eye Health
A healthy height weight proportionate body contributes to healthy eyes. Conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes (diabetic retinopathy) can all negatively impact vision, making overall wellness an important factor in eye health.
The Effects of Smoking on Vision
Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing serious eye conditions, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). According to the CDC, smokers are twice as likely to develop AMD and two to three times more likely to develop cataracts compared to non-smokers. Quitting smoking is one of the best ways to protect your eye health.
Family History and Eye Health
Knowing your family’s eye health history can help in early detection and prevention. If eye conditions run in your family, it’s even more critical to have regular eye exams to monitor and manage potential issues.
The Role of Exercise in Eye Health
Regular exercise benefits overall health, including eye health. By promoting good circulation and reducing the risk of systemic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, exercise helps keep your eyes in optimal condition.
When to Wear Protective Eyewear
Eye injuries can happen in various environments, from construction sites to home improvement projects. Protective eyewear is essential in situations involving:
- Flying debris (e.g., wood, metal)
- Chemicals
- Radiation exposure
- Bloodborne pathogens
Dr. Shagas also recommends polycarbonate lenses for those with or without low vision, as they provide enhanced durability and protection for the eyes.
The Importance of Wearing Sunglasses
Sunglasses protect against UV radiation, which can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. Always choose sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection to shield your eyes from harmful sun exposure.
Preventing Eye Infections
Good hygiene is crucial in preventing eye infections. Dr. Shagas advises:
- Washing hands frequently
- Avoiding eye rubbing
- Properly cleaning contact lenses and cases
- Not sharing contact lenses or eye makeup
By practicing good hygiene, you can significantly reduce the risk of infections and maintain healthy eyes.
Maintaining eye health is a lifelong commitment. If you notice sudden changes in your vision, seek medical attention immediately. Regular eye exams, a healthy lifestyle, and protective measures will go a long way in preserving your vision.
