March is National “Save Your Vision” Month
Vision is crucial in our everyday lives. Our eyes tirelessly work to see and interpret the world around us. According to the American Optometric Association’s (AOA) annual American Eye-Q® survey, 40 percent of Americans are more concerned about losing their eyesight than their ability to walk or hear.
AOA hosts Save Your Vision Month each March to encourage people to take steps to protect their vision for life.
Tips from the AOA:
1. Schedule yearly comprehensive exams
Comprehensive exams conducted by an optometrist not only assess vision but can also identify serious health issues, like high blood pressure and diabetes.
“Early detection and treatment is the best way to maintain good vision at any age,” says Mitchell T. Munson, O.D., president of the AOA. “Visiting an optometrist each year will help ensure that patients remain on a path to healthy eyes and vision throughout their lives.”
2. Protect against UV rays
Long-term sunlight exposure can harm both skin and eyes. Regardless of the season, wearing sunglasses is essential. Opt for sunglasses that block over 95 percent of UV-A and more than 99 percent of UV-B rays.
3. Give your eyes a break from digital device use
Two-thirds of Americans spend up to 7 hours a day using computers and other digital devices like tablets and smartphones. This continuous eye strain increases the risk of computer vision syndrome.
4. Eat your greens!
Incorporate five servings of fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens, into a healthy diet. Six nutrients—antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, essential fatty acids, vitamins C and E, and zinc—help protect vision and promote eye health. As these nutrients are not produced naturally in the body, it’s vital to ensure they are part of a daily diet and, if needed, supplemented with vitamins.
5. Practice safe wear and care of contact lenses
Over 40 million Americans use contact lenses to correct vision. While some follow the guidelines for lens use, many do not, risking their sight. Contact lens wearers who neglect their optometrist’s advice may experience blurred vision, red or irritated eyes, pain, or more serious conditions like keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea.
“It’s easy to incorporate steps into your daily routine to ensure healthy eyes and vision. Eating right, protecting against UV rays, and visiting your local eye doctor annually are a few things that can help keep your eyes and vision strong.”
– Dr. Arnold Stokol
5 Tips To Prevent Digital Eye Strain
by Dr. Arnold Stokol and Dr. Andreane Fagala
According to the AOA, nearly half of all Americans spend five or more hours each day on computers or PDAs (personal digital assistants). While technology can enhance everyday efficiency, prolonged use of electronic devices may result in symptoms like eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, fatigue, blurred vision, and loss of focus. The Vision Counsel indicates that up to 70% of adults experience visual eye strain from excessive electronic device use, particularly those in computer-centric jobs.
All computer users should consider annual comprehensive eye exams and share their working conditions with their doctor (such as distance from the computer). Regular eye exams can help uncover underlying issues contributing to eye strain.
Follow these recommendations while using your computer:
– Give It A Rest: Remember the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps relax focus and encourages blinking.
– Size Up: Smaller screens on handheld devices often display tiny text that can challenge your vision. Increase the font size so the device can be used at a more comfortable distance for your eyes.
– Sharpen Up: Better screen resolution usually leads to greater clarity and comfort. Adjust the screen brightness to a comfortable level, neither too bright nor too dim.
– Reduce Glare: Handheld devices can be challenging in varying light conditions. Whenever possible, position lighting to avoid direct glare on the screen.
– Look Down: It is easier on the eyes to read materials positioned below eye level; therefore, the AOA suggests positioning a computer monitor or handheld device slightly below eye level.
Additionally, specialized computer eyewear can be prescribed for enhanced visual comfort and efficiency. Anti-reflective coatings, tints, and lens designs can be customized to fit individual needs.
To learn more about eye and vision health, please visit www.aoa.org or contact StokolVision.com or call 972.669.9229.
