When it comes to eyecare, prevention is the best medicine. We’re used to thinking about health in terms of risk factors that we can’t control. If one has a family history of a condition such as heart disease, for example, there’s not much they can do about that but be aware of it and make sure they’re doing everything else right so it doesn’t worsen. Eye health isn’t like that. By taking some necessary steps to protect the eyes, one can minimize the risk of developing vision problems. Here are a few frequently asked questions about vision health.
How Do I Keep My Eyes Healthy?
There are a number of steps one can take to maintain healthy eyes. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, and don’t smoke. Protect the eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, and wear goggles when playing contact sports. Finally, schedule an annual comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist.
How Do I Know if I Have Poor Vision?
If one is experiencing blurred vision or having difficulty reading at normal distances, it may be time for an eye exam. Other symptoms to take into account include frequent headaches, eye strain, or squinting while reading or focusing on objects. Poor vision can be caused by several conditions, including nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Commonly used eyeglasses and contact lenses can correct these conditions.
What Are the Main Risk Factors for Eye Disease?
There are many risk factors, including family history, aging, smoking, and exposure to harmful UV rays from the sun, which may increase one’s risk for eye disease and vision loss. For example, high blood pressure, diabetes, and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can increase the risk of developing cataracts. Genetics can also play an essential role in the development of certain eye diseases such as glaucoma.
What Are the Causes of Eye Strain?
Eye strain is a result of prolonged exposure to bright lights and computer screens. It can also be caused by being in a poorly lit room for too long or by reading in low light. People with eye strain will benefit from sitting 12 to 15 inches from computer screens and wearing lenses that reduce glare and block harmful UV rays. Over-the-counter pain relievers are available, but they should only be used as a last resort.
