Questions to Safeguard Your Vision | Save Your Vision Month

Many of us may take our eyesight for granted. We might not focus on it until something goes wrong. But maintaining good vision and healthy eyes are vital to your overall well-being. Being proactive and taking steps to keep your eyes healthy is a better alternative than reacting to a disease once diagnosed.

Save Your Vision Month in March is a reminder to take a look at what you are doing to protect your eyesight. Below are some questions to help you determine how well you are taking care of your eyes. 
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When should I get an eye exam? 

You do not want to wait until you have vision issues to see an eye doctor. Certain types of eye diseases do not cause symptoms until they are in their later stages. This means you can be unaware you have an eye disease. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults have a comprehensive eye exam at age 40.

Individuals with risk factors for developing an eye disease may need an eye exam before age 40. If you have not had an eye exam by age 40, it is time to schedule an appointment. 
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Do I know my family’s health history? 

According to Research to Prevent Blindness, there are over 350 hereditary eye diseases, including glaucoma, corneal dystrophies, and color blindness. Knowing your family’s health history can help you take any additional steps to protect your sight. If possible, do some research to determine if certain eye diseases run in your family. 

​Does smoking affect my vision? 

Most people are aware that smoking increases their risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, but it also may adversely affect your eyes. 

According to the National Eye Institute, smoking increases your risk for different types of eye diseases, including some that may lead to blindness. Smoking appears to damage the blood vessels that supply oxygen to your eyes. 

If you currently smoke, talk to your healthcare provider about options to help you quit, such as medications, nicotine patches, and behavior modification classes. 
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Do sunglasses protect my vision? 

Exposure to UV rays from the sun can increase your risk of certain eye diseases. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that long-term sun exposure may raise your risk of eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and skin cancer on your eyelids. 

If you spend time outside during the day, wearing sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection is important. Wrap-around sunglasses are your best bet since they also protect the skin around your eyes. 
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Is safety eyewear really needed? 

Eye injuries can occur at work, school, and home. Eye injuries may range from minor scratches and bruising to damage that causes vision loss. Fortunately, most eye injuries are preventable. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that about 90 percent of eye injuries are preventable by wearing the appropriate safety eyewear. Protective eyewear can include safety goggles and face shields.

Can a chronic medical condition affect my vision? 

Some chronic medical conditions may also increase the likelihood of developing vision problems. If you have a disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, work with your doctor to have it under control. Having one of the diseases above can possibly lead to certain vision complications. For instance, people with diabetes have a risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to vision loss. 

We hope the above information was helpful. 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. 
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