The risk for eye diseases increases as we grow older and can threaten your quality of life during your golden years. One in six adults will be affected with an eye condition that can lead to vision loss. You can reduce your risk for developing cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy by following these five tips that could protect your eye health.
Tip #1 – Don’t Dismiss Any Vision Changes
The earlier an eye problem is found, the sooner it can be treated before it becomes more serious. Changes in your vision are sometimes just a sign that you need new glasses, while others could signal a serious eye condition. Make sure to contact your eye doctor if you notice a change in your vision or symptoms like:
- Increased number of floaters
- Seeing flashes of light
- Blurriness or double vision
- Eye pain or swelling
Tip #2 – Protect Your Eyes from the Sun’s Rays
Wearing sunglasses is the best way to protect your eyes from the sun. But you need to wear the right sunglasses, ones that block 100 percent of the sun’s UV-A and UV-B rays. Sunglasses that do not provide UV protection can be worse for eyes than going without sunglasses at all.
Tip #3 – Know Your Risk Factors for Eye Disease
Do you know your risk factors for eye disease? Your risk for developing eye disease increases if you:
- Have a family history of eye diseases
- Have high blood pressure or diabetes
- Are over the age of 65
- Are African-American over the age of 40
If you have any of these factors, you should discuss them with your eye doctor.
Tip #4 – Have Regular Physical Exams
Your physical health can have a direct effect on your eye health. Regular physical exams can detect changes in your health or chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Diabetes can lead to macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, while untreated high blood pressure can cause eye strokes. Early detection and treatment of these conditions can help prevent vision loss.
Tip #5 – Don’t Skip Your Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams can help prevent and detect eye diseases early on. These exams can mean the difference between permanent vision loss and being able to successfully save your eyesight. Your eye doctor will recommend how often your eyes should be examined according to your risk factors.
Protect your eye health by scheduling your eye exam today. Call Valley Eyecare at 602-955-2700 or book your appointment online.
