Approximately 37 million adults in America have age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, or glaucoma, all of which can cause visual impairment or blindness. However, recent studies show that making healthy choices and getting regular eye exams can help reduce a person’s risk of vision loss. In support of Healthy Vision Month in May, the American Academy of Ophthalmology is encouraging everyone to take charge of their eye health and preserve their sight by following some simple tips.

1. Wear sunglasses (even on cloudy days!). It can help prevent the formation of early cataracts by filtering ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Look for sunglasses that block out at least 99% of both UVA and UVB radiation. Bonus: Add a wide-brimmed hat when you’re out and about for extra protection!
2. Eating healthy is good for your eyes! In fact, a diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables—especially dark leafy greens, like spinach or kale—is important for keeping your eyes healthy. Research also shows that fish high in omega-3 fatty acids—like salmon, tuna, and halibut—can help protect your vision.
3. Regular physical activity can boost your mood, reduce stress, help you stay at a healthy weight—and protect you from serious eye diseases! Anything that gets your heart beating faster can help keep your eyes healthy—try going for a quick walk after work.
4. Blinking keeps your eyes lubricated. If you spend a lot of time at the computer or staring at your phone, you may forget to blink—and that can tire out your eyes. Try using the 20-20-20 rule throughout the day: Every 20 minutes, look away from the screens and focus about 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds. This reduces eyestrain and helps your eyes (and you!) feel better at the end of the day.
5. Are you at risk for eye injuries? About 2,000 people in the United States get a serious work-related eye injury every day and people with sports-related eye injuries end up in the ER every 13 minutes! The good news is that you can help protect your eyes from injury by wearing protective eyewear like safety glasses, goggles, and safety shields. To make sure you have the right kind of protective eyewear and you’re using it correctly, talk with your eye doctor.

Get more tips to keep your eyes healthy and safe. And don’t forget to ask your doctor if you need to schedule an eye exam!

Most workplaces today involve daily computer screen time that can cause continued and persistent eye strain. Individuals using computers for long stretches of time tend to complain about symptoms like dry eyes, blurry vision and eye strain. When using multiple devices, such as computers, tablets and smartphones, there are a number of ways to maintain good eye care and health while you work.

First of all, regular eye exams are important and you should tell your doctor how much online work you do each day. When using your devices, make sure you stop for breaks at regular intervals. It’s a good idea to get up, walk to a window, and focus on various distances. Allowing the eyes to look away from the screen, particularly at something soothing can be very resting for the eyes.

Additionally, computer users find that they don’t blink as frequently as they should, creating dry eyes. When staring continuously at your monitor, you will blink a lot less than normal. While you are working at your computer, make a conscious effort to blink as often as possible. In fact, closing your eyes for a few seconds can help as well. Air conditioning can also add to the problem. If you find your eyes are still dry, applying artificial tears can help to keep your eyes moist. If possible, install a humidifier in your work area.

The distance to your computer or device also plays a big role in the health of your eyes. Make sure the monitor is about 20 inches away from your eyes. The top of the monitor should be tilted a little below your eye level. Keep your monitor free of dust and fingerprints, as these can greatly reduce clarity.

Your eyewear is important too. Consider an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare and ease eye strain. Talk with your doctor about the best options for the way you use your eyes.

A healthy lifestyle and eating well can improve the health of your eyes. Eating plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits as well as getting a good night’s sleep are all important ways to preserve the health of your eyes. During this Workplace Eye Wellness Month, it’s important to take the necessary steps toward better eye care.

Have you made a resolution to stay healthy this year? Don’t forget about your eye health!

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world. Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because there are often no symptoms until there is visible, permanent damage. Routine eye exams can diagnose this condition and allow for early treatment so blindness can be prevented. Here are some facts about glaucoma:

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  Nearly three million Americans have glaucoma. Half of them don’t know it.

  Glaucoma can cause vision loss and blindness, which can’t be reversed. Glaucoma causes fluid to build up in your eye, causing pressure that can damage the optic nerve, which transfers visual images to your brain. But, you can save your vision with early detection and treatment.

• There are no early symptoms. Glaucoma often has no early warning signs. No pain. No discomfort. No blurry vision. Only advanced glaucoma will affect your vision. Don’t wait for symptoms to visit your eye doctor!
• In the United States, half of the people who have glaucoma don’t know they do. Nearly three million Americans have glaucoma. Half of them don’t know it. Lack of awareness and the absence of symptoms are preventing people from detecting the disease early. You can change that! Find out if you have glaucoma.
• Some people are at higher risk than others. African Americans over 40, adults over 60—especially Hispanics/Latinos—and people with a family history of glaucoma are at higher risk, making early detection especially important. Are you at higher risk? Talk to your family about glaucoma.
• There is only one way to know if you have glaucoma—by getting a comprehensive dilated eye exam. During the exam, an eye care professional places drops in your eyes to widen the pupils and looks for signs of the disease in the optic nerve.

Now that you’ve got the facts about glaucoma, make a resolution for healthier vision. Call (800) 344‑4443 to schedule a comprehensive dilated eye exam today and encourage your friends and loved ones to do the same.

Sources: National Eye Institute, National Eye Health Education Program