Remember, your eyes are part of you. In most cases, if you look after yourself, your eyes are more likely to be healthy also! It also makes sense to…
- Have your eyes examined regularly: Optometrists Association Australia guidelines recommend an eye examination once every two years to maintain eye health. At Ashburton Eyecare, we believe in the old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Early detection and management is the key to many eye pathologies common in the community, especially glaucoma, the “sneak thief of sight”.
- Eat healthily: You are what you eat! Macular degeneration causes central visual loss, and diet plays a significant role in the disease pathogenesis. Your optometrist can advise you on an appropriate diet to minimise the risks of macular degeneration.
- Family History: Having a family history of eye disease may increase your chance of having the same problem. Be aware if there is any family history of eye disease and ask your optometrist to check if your eyes are healthy.
- Wear UV Protection Glasses outside: Protecting your eyes against the harmful effects of ultra-violet exposure is only common sense, especially in the harsh Australian sun.
- Listen to the advice of your optometrist: after all, it’s why we spent all those years at university – to be in a position to give good advice about your eyes and vision.
- Take regular breaks: In a digital world, regular breaks from devices encourage a healthier eye, and may reduce the progression of myopia in younger people.
- Avoid dry eyes: Modern environments are unforgiving to the ocular surface. Heating and air-conditioning can dry the surface of the eye quickly and can cause symptoms of burning, grittiness, aching and discomfort. Your optometrist can advise you which ocular lubricants or other treatments are most suitable for your eyes.
- Wear prescribed glasses: Your glasses have been tailor-made for you alone according to the prescription measurements taken during the optometric consultation. Don’t use your mother’s or those you found in the op-shop!
- Stop smoking: Smoking is a risk factor for many eye diseases including macular degeneration and vascular eye disease. It’s best if you don’t.
