1. Get Early Intervention – Jump the gun and stay ahead of the game. Schedule eye exams regularly in order to catch problems early.
2. Know your Provider – Before your eye exam, get to know the person you are trusting with your health. Take advantage of online tools to learn about your Optometrist or Ophthalmologist. In the interest of time and money, make sure that person handles the type of problem you have. For example, if you know you have a cornea problem that requires surgery, you would want to see a cornea specialist like Dr. Jason Edmonds.
3. Know your Family History – This can play a large role in your eye care. As with any medical problem, having a family history may increase your risk.
4. Use Eye Protection – Make sure you are properly protecting your eyes, whether you are playing a sport, doing yard work, or performing high risk tasks at home or in the workplace. It only takes a moment to slip on protective eyewear and prevent a major injury.
5. Eat Healthy, Don’t Smoke, & Wear Sunglasses – These are all good tips for maintaining eye health. Including lots of vegetables and fruits in your diet gives the eyes vital nutrients and anti-oxidants that keep our eyes healthy and working correctly. If you smoke, quit. This can reduce the risk of dry eyes, cataracts and macular degeneration. The use of sunglasses can also lower your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, as well as protect the delicate skin around the eyes.
Stay Eye Healthy Everyone!
Written by Bart W., Technician with Milwaukee Eye Care