We rely on our eyes every day, from reading and working to driving, using screens and enjoying time outdoors. It can be easy to take our vision for granted, particularly when everything seems to be working as it should.
National Eye Health Week is a great opportunity to think about your eye health and the simple things you can do to protect your vision. From attending regular eye exams to protecting your eyes from UV, small changes can make a difference to your long term eye health.
Why Regular Eye Exams Are Important
An eye exam is about much more than checking your prescription.
During an eye exam, your optometrist assesses your vision and examines the health of your eyes. This can help identify changes in your prescription as well as signs of certain eye conditions, some of which may not cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages.
Conditions such as glaucoma can develop gradually without obvious changes to your vision. Regular eye exams give your optometrist the opportunity to monitor your eyes over time and identify anything that may need further investigation.
Your optometrist will also advise you on how frequently you should have your eyes examined based on your individual needs, age, health and family history.
Protect Your Eyes From UV
UV exposure is something to consider all year round, not just during the summer months.
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can contribute to certain eye conditions, so protecting your eyes when you are outdoors is an important part of looking after your eye health.
Quality sunspecs can help protect your eyes from UV, while a wide brimmed hat can provide additional protection.
A dark lens does not necessarily mean that your sunspecs provide adequate UV protection. Always check that your sunspecs offer 100% UVA and UVB protection and look for the appropriate certification or safety marking.
Give Your Eyes a Break From Screens
Screens are now part of everyday life, whether you are working, studying, using your phone or relaxing at home.
Spending long periods looking at a screen can contribute to symptoms such as tired or dry eyes, blurred vision and headaches. While screen use does not necessarily damage your eyes, taking regular breaks can help reduce visual discomfort.
One simple approach is the 20 20 20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something around 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Your screen position, lighting and working environment can also make a difference. If you regularly experience discomfort or headaches when using screens, speak to your optometrist.
Look After Your Overall Health
Your general health and eye health are closely connected.
Eating a balanced diet, staying active and avoiding smoking can all contribute to your overall wellbeing and help support healthy eyes. A varied diet containing plenty of fruit and vegetables, alongside foods such as oily fish and wholegrains, can provide important nutrients for general and eye health.
Some health conditions can also affect the eyes. Diabetes and high blood pressure, for example, can have an impact on eye health, making it important to attend any recommended health checks as well as your regular eye examinations.
Don’t Ignore Changes in Your Vision
Changes in your vision should not simply be put down to tiredness or getting older.
If you notice blurred or distorted vision, new floaters or flashes, changes to your peripheral vision or any other unusual changes, arrange an assessment with an optometrist.
Some symptoms require urgent attention. If you experience a sudden loss of vision, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes, or a dark curtain or shadow across your vision, seek urgent medical attention.
Make Eye Health Part of Your Routine
National Eye Health Week is a useful reminder to make eye health part of your regular healthcare routine, rather than waiting until you notice a problem.
Regular eye examinations, protecting your eyes from UV, taking breaks from screens, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and paying attention to changes in your vision can all help you look after your eyes for years to come.
At Martyn Kemp Opticians, our experienced team is here to help you and your family look after your vision and eye health at every stage of life.
If you are due an eye examination, have noticed a change in your vision or would like advice about your eye health, Book an appointment online or get in touch with your local Martyn Kemp Opticians.
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