“See” Your Best This July

Written By Alex Gawel

By John Martin

July is Healthy Vision Month, a national campaign highlighting the critical importance of eye health and regular eye exams. Your vision is essential for nearly every daily activity, from reading to driving, making its protection crucial for a high quality of life. Many eye conditions develop silently, making early detection through regular exams vital for effective treatment (National Eye Institute, n.d.).

Why are regular eye exams so important? Eye exams allow optometrists and ophthalmologists to detect early signs of serious eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration, often before you notice symptoms. They also ensure your prescriptions are up-to-date and can sometimes reveal broader health issues like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Easy Tips for Healthy Vision:

  • Schedule an Eye Exam: Make July the month to get your eyes checked if you haven't recently.

  • Protect Your Eyes from the Sun: Always wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

  • Eat a Healthy Diet: Foods rich in lutein, zeaxanthin (leafy greens), and Omega-3s (fish) support eye health.

  • Give Your Eyes a Break: Use the 20-20-20 rule for screen time: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

  • Wear Protective Eyewear: Use safety glasses for hazardous tasks or sports.

  • Practice Good Hygiene: Especially important for contact lens wearers.

This Healthy Vision Month, commit to proactive eye care. By scheduling regular exams and following these simple tips, you're investing in a lifetime of clear vision.

References

National Eye Institute. (n.d.). Healthy Vision Month. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://www.nei.nih.gov/healthy-vision-month

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, May 15). Why eye exams are important. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/about-eye-disorders/why-eye-exams-are-important.html

EyeCare Associates. (n.d.). The benefits of polarized vs. UV protection lenses. Retrieved from https://www.webeca.com/eye-care-resources/polarized-vs-uv-protection

American Optometric Association. (n.d.). Diet and nutrition. Retrieved from https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/diet-and-nutrition

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Eyestrain: Diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eyestrain/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372403

Alex Gawel
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