Every May, communities across the United States come together to observe Healthy Vision Month, an initiative led by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in partnership with the National Eye Institute. This month is dedicated to encouraging Americans of all ages to prioritize their vision and understand the importance of regular eye care, including options like laser vision correction for those seeking alternatives to glasses or contacts.
While it is commonly believed that vision problems predominantly affect older adults, recent studies also indicate a growing concern for younger demographics. For example, a survey by Ipsos and the Global Myopia Awareness Coalition highlighted a startling trend: 44% of American children now spend over four hours daily on electronic devices, doubling the rate before the pandemic lockdowns.
This surge in screen time aligns with an increase in myopia (nearsightedness) diagnoses worldwide, further supported by a 2020 study in the American Journal of Ophthalmology. It uncovered a link between excessive digital screen use, reduced outdoor activities, and the rise of myopia, potentially heightening future risks of severe vision impairments such as retinal damage, cataracts, and glaucoma. In light of these findings, Healthy Vision Month is an important reminder to take care of your eyes and practice preventive measures to protect your vision for years to come, including exploring modern solutions like laser treatment for eyes.
1. Get a Comprehensive Eye Exam
Many eye diseases have no early symptoms, so an eye exam is a crucial way to spot issues early on, potentially before you notice any changes in your vision. This month, make it a point to schedule an appointment for an eye exam. It could help detect diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts early when they’re more manageable and discuss advancements in laser eye treatment.
2. Eat Eye-Healthy Foods
Nutrition has been proven to have a direct correlation to eye health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E can help prevent age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts. Adding salmon, nuts, and green leafy vegetables to your diet supports overall health and is essential for those considering laser vision correction to enhance their visual outcome.
3. Wear Protective Eyewear
Shielding your eyes from harmful UV rays with sunglasses or protecting them during sports and hazardous activities with safety glasses can prevent injury and diseases like cataracts. Ensure your sunglasses block 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. This protective measure is crucial for maintaining healthy eyes, especially if you’ve undergone or are considering procedures at a laser eye surgery center.
4. Take Breaks During Screen Time
With the increasing amount of time spent in front of screens, practice the 20-20-20 rule to prevent eye strain. Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple practice can make a significant difference, especially for those who have had laser eye correction and are keen to preserve their improved vision.
5. Quit Smoking or Never Start
Smoking increases the risk of developing cataracts, optic nerve damage, and macular degeneration. If you’re looking for another reason to quit or not start smoking, consider your eye health. Smoking cessation is an essential step for anyone, particularly those contemplating or who have undergone laser vision correction.
LASIK Eye Surgery as a Vision Solution
LASIK eye surgery is popular for those seeking clearer vision without relying on glasses or contact lenses. This quick and generally painless procedure reshapes the cornea, allowing light to focus on the retina for improved vision. Most patients experience immediate vision improvement and can return to normal activities in just a few days with minimal downtime. Discussing the potential benefits, risks, and LASIK eye surgery costs with a qualified eye care professional can help determine if LASIK is the right choice for you.
Celebrating Healthy Vision Month is about protecting and preserving your vision for a lifetime. Remember, the best way to ensure healthy vision is by getting regular, comprehensive eye exams.
If it’s been a while since your last eye check or you have concerns about your eye health, don’t wait—make an appointment with your eye care practitioner today, especially if you’re in areas like Edenton, Elizabeth City, Kinston, Kitty Hawk, or Washington, where access to state of the art eye care and laser eye surgery centers, including those offering LASIK eye surgery at various costs like Albemarle Eye Center, is within reach. For more information, book an appointment with our ophthalmologists today.
**The information offered in this blog is not intended to substitute expert medical advice. Always seek a qualified healthcare professional for any questions or concerns you may have regarding your specific medical condition.**
