Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Health

Our eyes are our windows to the world, allowing us to see and experience the beauty and wonder around us. As precious as they are, it's vital to take good care of our eye health. Many people have questions about maintaining and protecting their vision so here we will we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you see the world more clearly.

 

How Often Should I Have An Eye Exam?

Most of us are aware that regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good eye health, but how often should you have one? The frequency may vary depending on your age and any existing eye conditions. Generally, children over 5 should have eye tests every 1-2 years, adults should have an eye exam every two years, but individuals with a history of eye problems or those over 60 should have yearly exams. If you aren’t sure when your last eye exam was, book an appointment with your local independent optometry clinic today.

 

Can Staring At A Screen All Day Harm My Eyes?

Extended screen time can lead to a condition known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. Symptoms may include eye fatigue, dryness, headaches, and blurred vision. To reduce digital eye strain, practice the 20-20-20 rule: take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes. You should also ensure your screen is at eye level and the right distance away and adjust the brightness, contrast, and font size for optimal comfort.

 

Can Wearing Glasses Weaken My Eyesight Over Time?

No, wearing glasses does not weaken your eyesight over time. In fact, glasses are prescribed to correct vision problems and alleviate eye strain, which can result from uncorrected refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.

 

Glasses work by adjusting the way light enters your eyes, which helps to focus images directly onto the retina, allowing you to see clearly. They do not alter the physical structure of your eyes or change your eyesight permanently.

 

The idea that wearing glasses weakens the eyesight may stem from a misconception. Some people believe that the eyes become dependent on glasses and that wearing them makes the natural ability to see clearly without glasses worse. This is not true. Glasses provide the necessary correction to achieve clear vision and reduce eye strain, but they do not alter your eyes' inherent abilities.

 

How Can I Protect My Eyes From The Sun?

Prolonged exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can damage your eyes and increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions.

·       Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays when outdoors.

·       Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection.

·       Try to avoid prolonged sun exposure, particularly during the sun's peak hours, which are typically from 10am to 4pm.

·       Stay well-hydrated as this can help maintain the moisture balance in your eyes and reduce the risk of dryness or irritation in sunny and dry conditions.

 

Can A Healthy Diet Improve My Eye Health?

Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those high in antioxidants like vitamin A, C and E, Zinc, Beta-Carotene, and Anthocyanins can definitely benefit your eye health. Fuelling your body with leafy greens, vitamin A rich foods like carrots and sweet potato, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids can support good vision.

 

Can I Still Wear Contact Lenses If I Have Astigmatism?

Patients with astigmatism often wonder if they can wear contact lenses. The answer is yes! There are special types of contact lenses designed to correct astigmatism, known as Toric contact lenses. Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens in the eye, which can result in blurred or distorted vision. Toric contact lenses are specifically designed to address this irregularity and provide clear vision for individuals with astigmatism.

 

It's important to have a comprehensive eye exam and contact lens fitting by a qualified eye care professional to determine if Toric contact lenses are suitable for your eyes and to receive the appropriate prescription and guidance for their use.

 

Are There Ways To Reduce My Risk Of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of AMD. While some risk factors, such as genetics and aging, cannot be controlled, you can adopt the following healthy habits to help lower your risk of developing AMD:

·       Maintain a healthy diet high in vitamins and essential nutrients.

·       Quit smoking.

·       Limit alcohol.

·       Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly.

·       Protect your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses.

·       If you have diabetes, work with your healthcare provider to keep your blood sugar levels in control.

·       Schedule regular eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors.

 

Maintaining good eye health is vital for a lifetime of clear vision and overall well-being. Regular eye exams, a healthy lifestyle, and protective measures against UV exposure and digital eye strain can go a long way in preserving your vision. If you have specific concerns about your eyes, don't hesitate to consult the team at Abernethy Owens, we are a longstanding independent optometry clinic in Perth with decades of experience. Book an appointment at our Rockingham, Kardinya, Woodvale, Floreat, or Fremantle[MH1]  eye clinic today by calling 1800 411 744. Alternatively, you can book online.