Tips for Maintaining Good Vision Throughout Your Lifetime

Our eyes are an important part of our lives, but it's easy to take them for granted until we experience vision problems. May is Healthy Vision Month, and it's an ideal time to spread awareness about the importance of maintaining good vision at every stage of life. Below, we take a closer look at some simple ways to keep our eyes healthy and prevent common issues such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.

Remember to book your annual eye examination at Kirk Eye Center in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL. Our highly skilled eye doctors can provide comprehensive eye care.

Shield your eyes from UV rays

Too much sun exposure increases our risk of cataracts and other eye diseases. At Kirk Eye Center, we recommend wearing sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays whenever you spend time outdoors, even on cloudy days. Children are especially vulnerable because of their developing eyes, so be sure to get shades for the whole family.

Wear protective eyewear

Do you participate in sports or work in a hazardous environment? You may need protective eyewear. Sports like basketball, racquetball, and hockey are considered high-risk because of the fast-moving objects involved. Similarly, construction or manufacturing jobs may expose workers to flying debris or chemicals. Wearing the appropriate safety glasses or goggles helps prevent serious eye injuries.

If you're unsure about the type of protective eyewear you need, consult with your eye doctor at Kirk Eye Center in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL. They can suggest the best possible options for your specific needs and lifestyle.

Take breaks from screens

In today's digital age, it's nearly impossible to avoid staring at a screen for extended periods of time. Whether it's for work or leisure, adults and children spend most of their days looking at computers, phones, and TV screens. However, this constant exposure to blue light can cause digital eye strain and lead to chronic dry eyes. During Healthy Vision Month, make a conscious effort to take regular breaks from your screens every 20 minutes or so.

Stay on top of chronic health conditions

Certain chronic health conditions like diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure) cause issues like glaucoma (high eye pressure) if they are not controlled. Proper management, medication, and regular check-ups are essential to maintaining healthy eyes. Please inform your eye doctor at Kirk Eye Center about your medical history so they can personalize your yearly eye examinations and monitor any changes in your vision.

Book yearly eye exams

Speaking of eye exams, it's crucial to schedule one every year, even if you don't wear glasses or contacts. Annual exams help eye doctors detect potential issues early on and allow for prompt treatment. During the exam, our team will also check your overall eye health and offer recommendations as needed. If you experience any changes in your vision or have concerns, don't wait until your annual exam and contact Kirk Eye Center right away.

Prioritize your eyes this Healthy Vision Month

Maintaining healthy vision requires effort and regular check-ups, but the benefits are considered worth it. By following these tips and being proactive, you can prevent common vision problems and enjoy clear sight for years to come. Call Kirk Eye Center in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL to book your annual eye exam and take the first step today. Remember, healthy vision starts with you.