Every year, Americans make New Year resolutions that involve losing weight, eating healthier foods, and going to the doctor for routine annual checkups. However, many people continue to fail at taking the importance of eye health into consideration year after year. Neglecting to take good care of your eyes can result in the possibility of major vision problems down the road, such as macular degeneration and blindness.
Posted February 10, 2015 by Silverstein Eye Centers
Your eyes require special care all year long, depending on the season. Springtime will often pave the way for problems with eye allergies, whereas summer can increase your risk for UV damage if you fail to wear protective sunglasses.
Want to take steps all year round to keep your eyes healthy? Refer to this checklist to help keep your eyes in prime health.
WINTER
- Consume healthy foods. The holiday season is often associated with weight gain due to the goodies and large portion sizes consumed during this time of year. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to maintain great eye health.
- Stop smoking. Individuals who smoke are at four times the risk for going blind than non-smokers. Make plans to quit smoking for the New Year.
- Take advantage of vision insurance. If your health plan benefits expire at the end of the calendar year, make an appointment with your eye doctor as soon as possible to undergo vision screening.
SPRING
- Seek relief from allergies. Spring allergies can often cause your eyes to feel itchy, watery, and swollen, and can contribute to foggy vision. Make an appointment with your eye doctor to have your eyes checked and receive treatment for allergies, if necessary.
- Upgrade your current eyewear. If you’re ready to update your fashion for the spring season, consult with your eye doctor to learn more about the latest trends in eyewear. Sometimes, new eyewear styles can help you look more youthful.
- Wear protective eyewear. If you plan on spending more time outdoors playing sports, invest in quality sports eyewear to protect your eyes. Additionally, if you plan on tackling home improvement projects, wear safety goggles before mowing the lawn, handling toxic cleaning supplies, and doing home repairs.
SUMMER
- Protect your eyes from the sun. Though you should be wearing sunglasses all year long, most people have a greater need for sunglasses during the summer season. Look specifically for glasses that protect your eyes from UV rays.
- Wear sunglasses even on cloudy days. UV rays can be damaging even if clouds are covering the sun, so it’s important to wear sunglasses at all times to reduce the risk for macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Wear swim goggles at the pool or beach. Pools and beaches are host to multiple types of waterborne bacteria that can increase your risk for vision-related diseases.
AUTUMN
- Schedule eye exams for the entire family. Contact your eye doctor before school starts and schedule eye exams for everyone in your family. If you have children, an eye exam can help detect vision problems early on.
- Drink plenty of water. Considering fall is the start of the holiday season, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and to counter the effects of coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages that can put strain on your eyes.
- Maintain your current fitness routine. Cold temperatures may tempt you to stay indoors, but exercise can help maintain your eye health, and lower the risk for diabetic retinopathy.
Please call Silverstein Eye Centers today to make an appointment for an eye exam.