Preventive care is your first line of defense against eye disease. Vision problems tend to increase with age, and early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Although many eye problems are minor, some eye diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration can result in a permanent loss of vision. Making the effort to protect your vision now will help prevent these conditions and others that can affect your eyesight.
Below are a few tips for preventing eye disease:
- Schedule an eye exam every 2 to 3 years for those under the age of 40 if you do not have any existing eye problems or high risk factors. Eye exams should be scheduled yearly for those who are 40 years of age or older.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV ray damage. UV ray exposure can increase your risk of developing cataracts.
- Be aware of any unique risk factors of developing eye problems as well as your family’s history of eye problems or diabetes.
- Eat a nutritious and balanced diet. A healthy diet is important for preventing eye disease and diabetes. Foods that can help keep your eyes healthy include green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, salmon, tuna and fatty fish, legumes, eggs and nuts.
Discuss your family history of eye disease with your Eye Michigan doctor and ask about any other preventative steps that you should take to further lower your risk of eye disease.