Preventive Eye Care

• Make eye exams a part of your family’s health care routine. Just like annual visits to the family doctor and dentist, be sure to schedule and appointment with your optometrist.
  
  
• Protect your eyes from Ultra Violet (UV) rays year round. Keep your sunglasses handy, even during the cold months. UV rays can damage your eyes even when it’s not summer.
  
  
• Eat eye-friendly food rich in antioxidants like spinach, broccoli, peas and tangerines. Your eyes will thank you later in life!
  
  
• Give your eyes a break if you spend long periods of time in front of the computer or television. Staring at the screen can strain your eyes. Take frequent breaks and keep your eyes moist by consciously blinking or using artificial tears.
  
  
• Quit smoking. According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), smoking contributes to the onset of cataracts, macular degeneration, and dry eyes.
  
  
• If you have a family history of eye disease, ask your optometrist for an appropriate examination schedule for you. Early detection is key to preventing vision loss.