May is Healthy Vision Month: Prioritize Your Eye Health!

Every May, Healthy Vision Month highlights the importance of taking proactive steps to protect our vision and maintain eye health. Sponsored by the National Eye Institute, Healthy Vision Month encourages people of all ages to focus on the health of their eyes and to adopt habits that can help preserve vision for life.

Here’s why May is the perfect time to consider a few simple lifestyle changes and health habits that will benefit your eyes long-term.

Why Healthy Vision Matters

Our eyes are vital for almost everything we do—from work and learning to recreation and connecting with the world around us. Unfortunately, vision loss and eye disease affect millions of people each year, many of whom may not experience symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. Regular eye care is essential to detecting conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy early, where treatment is most effective.

With more time spent on screens and extended outdoor UV exposure, our eyes face both old and new challenges. That’s why Healthy Vision Month serves as a timely reminder to prioritize eye care.

Key Steps to Maintain Healthy Vision

1. Get Regular Eye ExamsComprehensive eye exams are essential, even if you don’t currently wear glasses or contacts. An eye exam can reveal early signs of health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and even certain cancers. For children, regular exams are crucial for detecting vision issues that could impact their learning and development.
   • For Adults: Most adults should have an eye exam at least every two years. If you have an existing eye condition or wear corrective lenses, an annual exam may be recommended.
   • For Children: Schedule eye exams for children before they start school and regularly as they grow.
2. Protect Your Eyes from UV LightLong-term exposure to UV rays increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye diseases. Sunglasses with 100% UV protection are essential for protecting your eyes on sunny days, and even on cloudy days when UV rays still penetrate.
   • Choose Sunglasses Wisely: Look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles offer added protection by covering the sides of your eyes.
3. Limit Screen Time and Practice the 20-20-20 RuleDigital eye strain is increasingly common with more people working on computers and using digital devices. Symptoms include headaches, dry eyes, and blurred vision.
   • 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and keeps the eye muscles relaxed.
   • Adjust Lighting: Position your screen so that glare is minimized, and use blue light filters to reduce the strain on your eyes.
4. Eat a Nutrient-Rich DietA diet high in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids supports eye health. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin (found in leafy greens and colorful vegetables), along with vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3s, are known to benefit eye health and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
   • Top Foods for Eye Health: Leafy greens, fish (like salmon), eggs, nuts, citrus fruits, and carrots. Consider incorporating these into daily meals for an eye-healthy diet.
5. Stay Physically Active and Maintain a Healthy WeightRegular physical activity can reduce the risk of eye diseases associated with obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. These health conditions often have secondary effects on eye health, such as increased risk of diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.
6. Don’t SmokeSmoking is linked to an increased risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and dry eye syndrome. Quitting smoking, or not starting, is one of the best ways to protect your eyes—and your overall health.
7. Be Mindful of Eye Safety at Work and HomeEye injuries are common in jobs like construction or lab work but can happen at home too, especially during DIY projects or yard work.
   • Wear Protective Eyewear: If your job or hobby poses a risk to your eyes, wear appropriate safety goggles or protective glasses to shield your eyes from dust, debris, and harmful chemicals.

Common Eye Conditions to Be Aware Of

Healthy Vision Month is also an ideal time to familiarize yourself with common eye conditions and know when to seek help. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes for conditions like:

• Cataracts: A clouding of the eye’s lens that leads to blurry vision and glare. Often associated with aging, cataracts can be treated effectively with surgery.
• Glaucoma: Often symptomless in its early stages, glaucoma damages the optic nerve, causing vision loss if untreated. Routine eye exams are the best way to catch it early.
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): AMD affects central vision and is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over 50. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular check-ups can help manage its progression.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss. For those with diabetes, regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring this condition.

Encourage Your Loved Ones to Prioritize Eye Health

Healthy Vision Month is also a time to share information on eye health with friends, family, and colleagues. Encourage those close to you to schedule their annual eye exams, make healthy lifestyle choices, and protect their vision at work and play.

In Conclusion

This May, let Healthy Vision Month inspire you to make eye health a priority. Whether it’s by getting a comprehensive eye exam, wearing sunglasses, or limiting screen time, there are many ways to protect your eyes and preserve your vision for the future. By incorporating small, daily habits and making informed choices, you can enjoy clearer, healthier vision for life.