How Do You Know if Your Eyes are Healthy? | Healthy Vision Month

July is Healthy Vision Month, but what does it mean to have healthy eyes? Does it mean perfect vision? Not necessarily. There are several signs that may indicate you have poor eye health.

It is helpful to recognize signs of failing eye health early, so you can take the needed steps to prevent the situation from becoming worse and preserve your vision. 
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Signs of poor eye health  

Changes to your eyes can signal something wrong with your overall health. Also, certain signs may mean your eye health is not where you want it to be. Below are some symptoms and signs of problems with your eye health.

Burning: Burning eyes can be a result of anything from allergies to eyestrain. But it may also signal a buildup of bacteria or an inflamed cornea.

Crust on the eyelids: Crusts may form on the eyelids when you have discharge from the eyes that hardens. Crusty material on the eyes can also occur due to an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis.
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Puffy eyes: Puffy eyes can occur due to allergies or an eye infection.

Blurred vision: Blurred vision can occur due to many causes, including some eye conditions. 
 
A dark spot in the center of vision: A dark spot in the center of your vision can indicate a serious eye problem, such as a retina detachment.  

Eye pain: Generally, pain is your body’s way of letting you know something is wrong. Eye pain can occur due to an injury or an eye disease. 
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Signs of healthy eyes

The best way to make sure your eyes are healthy is through a comprehensive eye exam. Symptoms of certain eye conditions may not occur until the disease is advanced. Sometimes you can only diagnose an eye condition through an exam. This is why an eye exam is critical.

There are also signs you have healthy eyes, such as the following:

Your eyes have adequate lubrication: Having too few tears is often a sign of dry eye syndrome, but making excess tears can also be a sign of eye issues, such as allergies. The best case is making enough tears to keep your eye well-lubricated and comfortable.

The sclera of your eye is white: The sclera is the part of your eye that covers the eyeball. It is normally white, but it can become discolored in certain situations. For example, it can become yellow if you have jaundice. It can also be chronically bloodshot and red with certain conditions.

Your vision is good: Having good vision is also a sign your eyes are healthy, but your vision does not have to be 20/20. Being a little nearsighted or farsighted does not necessarily mean your eyes are unhealthy.
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What to do if you have poor eye health

If you have signs and/or symptoms, your eyes may not be as healthy as you like, but there are some things you can do to improve the situation. Consider the following:

See an eye doctor: The number one thing you should do if you suspect you have poor eye health is see an eye doctor for an eye exam.

Stop smoking: If you smoke cigarettes, it may interfere with the circulation to your eyes. You may not get the proper nutrients to your eyes, which can contribute to eye problems.

Exercise: Getting regular exercise is good for overall well-being, and that includes your eyes. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise about five times a week.

Eat foods high in omega 3: According to the National Eye Institute, eating foods that are rich in omega 3 may help keep your eyes healthy. Good choices include tuna, salmon, and halibut. If you do not like fish, consider taking a supplement. 

If you have concerns about your eye health, we are here to answer any questions. In addition, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.