Vision problems aren’t necessarily something that just comes with age. It’s important to take care of your eyes and start doing so before problems occur. As with many other aspects of your health, preventative measures are the best protection against future medical issues.
Here are 6 tips to keep your eyes healthy and strong.
1) Get annual comprehensive eye exams. Even if you have 20/20 vision, getting yearly Dallas eye exams is vital to maintaining that perfect vision. A qualified eye doctor will be able to detect signs of eye disease even before you know there’s a problem, and if you already have an eye condition, they can help monitor and treat accordingly. If you have an existing condition, your doctor may want to see you more often to monitor it.
3) Add eye-friendly foods to your diet. Studies have shown certain foods, particularly vegetables like leafy greans (spinache, kale, etc.), as well as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, can protect against and in some cases improve macular degeneration. These foods are good for your overall health, too, so find some great recipes and enjoy the taste of improving eye health!
4) Know your history. Learning about your family’s eye problems and telling your doctor about any conditions that family members have experienced can help determine your risk factors for experiencing those conditions.
5) Watch your weight and exercise. Being overweight is a big risk factor for Type 2 diabetese -- which can lead to diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in those younger than 65. Studies also link obesity to an increased likelihood of developing cataracts. On the other hand, studies show links between exercise, such as a brisk 30-40 minute walk four or more times a week, and the reduction of intraocular pressure for glaucoma sufferers. Starting the habit of exercise now can help prevent problems in the future.
6) Learn the 20-20-20 rule. In this age of computers, many of us have jobs that involve staring at a computer screen for long hours. This can be harsh on your eyesight, but there are steps you can take to alleviate issues. The 20-20-20 rule means look 20 feet ahead every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds. This simple step allows your eyes to periodically recharge.
Following these steps can give you a tremendous advantage over future eye problems, as well as improving your overall health and happiness. For more ways to improve your vision and stave off eye disease, make an appointment with Dr Harvey Carter today.
4) Know your history. Learning about your family’s eye problems and telling your doctor about any conditions that family members have experienced can help determine your risk factors for experiencing those conditions.
5) Watch your weight and exercise. Being overweight is a big risk factor for Type 2 diabetese -- which can lead to diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in those younger than 65. Studies also link obesity to an increased likelihood of developing cataracts. On the other hand, studies show links between exercise, such as a brisk 30-40 minute walk four or more times a week, and the reduction of intraocular pressure for glaucoma sufferers. Starting the habit of exercise now can help prevent problems in the future.
6) Learn the 20-20-20 rule. In this age of computers, many of us have jobs that involve staring at a computer screen for long hours. This can be harsh on your eyesight, but there are steps you can take to alleviate issues. The 20-20-20 rule means look 20 feet ahead every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds. This simple step allows your eyes to periodically recharge.
Following these steps can give you a tremendous advantage over future eye problems, as well as improving your overall health and happiness. For more ways to improve your vision and stave off eye disease, make an appointment with Dr Harvey Carter today.
