It might seem like age-related eye problems are an inevitable fact of life. Some issues, like the need for reading glasses, are quite common, and most people will have to face them. There are, however, some eye problems that can be prevented or treated if they are caught early by your eye doctor.

How to Protect Your Eye Health

Dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration are some of the most common eye health issues you can face as you age. Even if you don’t have eye problems now, you can start taking steps today to prevent future issues: 

• See Your Eye Doctor Every Year: Early detection of eye diseases is vital to treating and reversing conditions that could compromise your sight. Even if you don’t need corrective lenses, you should see your eye doctor annually for a checkup.
• Minimize Computer Eye Strain: If you work at a computer several days a week, you need the rule of 20. Every 20 minutes, spend 20 seconds looking at something that’s at least 20 feet away. This will help you avoid digital eye strain.
• Create a Healthy Lifestyle: Smoking increases your risk of macular degeneration. Speak with your doctor about a smoking cessation program if you need help quitting. Increase your physical activity, as a sedentary lifestyle is associated with greater vision loss, and add nutritious foods to your diet like leafy green vegetables and fruits, which contain vitamins to support eye health.
• Wear Eye Protection Every Day: Sunglasses with UV protection should be worn regularly, even on cloudy days if your eyes are sensitive to sunlight. The cumulative effect of UV rays on your eyes has been linked to cataracts and macular degeneration, as well as other conditions that can cause vision loss.

When your eye health is strong, it can be easy to take for granted—don’t wait for a disease to start taking better care of your eyes. Incorporate these eye doctor recommended healthy habits into your daily life, so you have better vision, longer.

Dr. Ron Sealock is the eye doctor Dothan, AL, trusts for their eye health needs. Dr. Sealock and his staff offer the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques and they’ll treat you like family. Whether you need help managing an eye condition like glaucoma, or you’re looking for the trendiest new eyewear, look no further than Dr. Ron Sealock. Call (334) 793-9607, or contact the office online to schedule an appointment.