10
May

Aging is inevitable, and many people experience changes in their eyes as they grow old. Cataracts, macular degeneration, refractive errors, and other eye diseases could make it difficult for you to read a book or see the road when you are behind the wheel.

Treatment or Prevention?

There are many treatments that can be done to help with these common eye diseases. But, the most effective way to protect your vision is by preventing vision loss before it occurs. Instead of waiting until you have been diagnosed with eye problems, you should consider the benefits of implementing healthy lifestyle habits that will prevent vision issues.

Lifestyle Habits to Support Your Vision

A few small changes in your daily routine can go a long way to protect your eyes. These are some of the things that you should be doing:

1. Healthy Diet: Fill your dinner plate with plenty of leafy greens, fruit, vegetables, and wild-caught fish. These healthy ingredients contain the necessary vitamins and minerals that support vision, including omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, zeaxanthin, and more.
2. Quit Smoking: Chemicals in cigarettes can increase the risk of macular degeneration and other health problems. These chemicals have a negative impact on blood flow and oxygen delivery in the eyes and other areas of the body.
3. Cover Your Eyes: If you are spending time outside, cover your eyes to protect yourself from UV damage. Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to keep the direct sunlight away from your eyes.
4. Exercise: Moving your body is important to help you maintain healthy blood pressure levels, which have a positive impact on the blood flow and pressure in your eyes. Schedule time for 30 minutes of exercise each day. Talk to your doctor to understand the exercises that are right for your physical condition.

One of the best things that you can do is work with an experienced optometrist to get personalized recommendations based on your needs. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection, which will help to identify the best treatments if they are necessary.

Is it time for an eye exam? Call our Temecula office at (951) 302-1331 or our Murrieta office at (951) 600-9226.