You take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly. You take care of your skin by moisturizing during the dry winter months. How do you take care of your eyes?
When it comes to healthy vision, every little step counts. This is especially prudent for those that work in front of a computer, elderly persons with failing vision and individuals developing a nearsighted condition. When you feel your eye health could be a little better, an optician can give you gear that’s just as functional as it is fashionable. Eyeglasses today are better than they’ve ever been and can go a long way in keeping your vision sound, blocking UV rays and even reducing your risk for developing cataracts in the future.
Haven’t visited an optician lately? It’s time to brush up on your eye care with these helpful tips.
Quick Facts About Eye Health In America
The need for an optician and their unique skillset is only getting higher from here. That’s because over 40% of Americans between the ages of 12 and 55 are nearsighted. This condition, as well as farsightedness, can be caused by genetics, injuries and the onset of age. Nearsightedness generally starts cropping up in children when they’re between the ages of eight and 12. Vision problems aren’t just frustrating. They can actively impede a person’s ability to learn and navigate their world. How can an optometrist change this?
Step Away From The Computer Every Other Hour
Taking good care of your eyes means developing good habits. It’s common for many Americans young and old to sit in front of a screen for hours on end. Whether it’s a home computer or your iPad, taking a break once in a while will do your eyes some good. A bright screen can cause stress on your eyes, leading to short-term issues like headaches and sleeping issues…as well as long-term issues that could see you visiting an optician on a regular basis. Did some typing or finished up a game? Take a break for 20 to 30 minutes before diving back in.
Block Harmful UV Rays With Specialty Eyeglasses
Another harmful element that can affect your health are UV rays. You already know UV rays can be damaging to your skin, increasing your risk for cancer with repeat exposure, and you likely already take measures to protect yourself with limited sun exposure and quality sunscreen. Long-term exposure to UV rays also promotes a higher risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and even a specific form of skin cancer around the eyelids. It’s recommended both children and adults wear specialty sunglasses that filter 95% to 100% of UV rays.
Check Your Family History For Genetic Predispositions
It never hurts to be extra careful. Visiting an optician will be even better if you find out you have a genetic predisposition to certain debilitating eye diseases, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. The National Eye Institute has determined farsightedness to affect anywhere from 5% to 10% of Americans today. Another one out of four American children has a vision problem that can significantly impact their learning. Your vision insurance is best utilized when you take preventative action, such as applying for superior eyewear or just getting a check-up.
Visit An Eye Specialist This Year
When in doubt? Visit an eye specialist. An optician can figure out whether that eye strain you’re experiencing is caused by a genetic problem or just sitting in front of the television for long intervals. For those that regularly wear glasses it’s recommended you visit the eye doctor once per year or once every other year to make sure your prescription is up-to-date. Back in 2016 an impressive 65% of adults in the United States were wearing prescription eyeglasses to work, the beach and even at home.
Take good care of your eyes. See how better eyeglasses or even better life habits can change the way you look at things.