Your eyes are one of your most important connections to the world around you. This May, celebrate them by visiting an ophthalmologist that’s participating in the National Eye Institute’s Healthy Vision Month. To learn more about how you can best care for your vision, check out these tips from the experts at Hawaii Vision Clinic for keeping your eyes healthy and happy.

How to Care for Your Eyes During Healthy Vision Month

1. Get an Annual Comprehensive Dilation Exam

You may go into the doctor for a yearly check-up and visit the dentist every six months; but, did you know that having an eye exam should be an annual habit, regardless of whether you wear glasses? Many eye diseases do not become noticeable through pain or loss of vision until they’ve advanced significantly, so regular comprehensive eye exams with pupil dilation are necessary to screen for disease.

2. Know Your Family’s Eye Health History

While you’re visiting the ophthalmologist, they may ask about your family’s history of eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. Ask your relatives about their experiences with eye health in the past to see if you may be at risk for hereditary eye diseases.

3. Wear Effective Sunglasses

You probably have a favorite pair of sunglasses you couldn’t live without, but it’s important to know whether they’re actually blocking the sun’s rays. The best sunglasses should block out 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays, so check out your brand’s website to make sure your shades are keeping your vision safe.

4. Use Protective Eyewear During Recreation

Most people have a pair of sunglasses, but fewer wear protective eyewear during sports or other recreational activities. This Healthy Vision Month, practice protecting your eyes whenever necessary, rather than just on bright summer days. Ask your ophthalmologist about how to obtain quality protective eyewear for your favorite sports and leisure activities.

5. Live a Healthy Lifestyle

Lastly, the best way to keep your eyes healthy is to keep your whole body fit. Your eyes are complex organs that work in tandem with your body’s other systems, so keep your vision sharp by eating nutritious foods, maintaining a healthy BMI, quitting smoking, and treating any chronic health issues as your doctor instructs.

If you’re looking for an ophthalmologist you can trust to perform your annual eye exam or think you may need glasses, turn to Hawaii Vision Clinic for all of your vision care needs. Their team of professionals provides the Aiea and Honolulu areas with treatment for eyes of every kind, using cutting edge technology and years of experience. Call (808) 487-7938 to schedule your appointment today or visit their website for details on their services.