Healthy Habits for Your Eyes

Submitted by Elman Retina Group on September 29, 2019

At Elman Retina Group, Drs. Michael J. Elman and Sidney A. Schechet have seen first-hand how losing vision to an eye disease or injury can lower an individual’s quality of life. Here our board-certified retina specialists discuss a few simple habits that can help reduce your risk of certain eye diseases and problems that can affect your vision and everyday life.

Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

Overexposure to the sun is linked to several eye conditions, including age-related macular degeneration and other retinal diseases. It is imperative that you wear sunglasses whenever outdoors, whether it’s at the beach or pool, walking your dog or gardening. Sunglasses should offer 100 percent UV protection and you should wear them year round, even during overcast and cloudy weather.

Don’t Smoke

Here is another reason to quit smoking or never begin smoking at all: according to a growing body of research, smoking increases the risk of serious eye disease such age-related macular degeneration.

Manage Chronic Health Conditions

Health conditions like hypertension and diabetes can have serious eye-related symptoms. Diabetes has been shown to increase the risk of certain eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy. It is very important that you work with your primary care doctor and manage all chronic health conditions. Take medications as prescribed by your doctor and keep up with all medical appointments.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Overweight or obese individuals have a higher risk of diabetes and other chronic health conditions that may lead to eye complications or diseases. For this reason, you should maintain a healthy weight. Exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet high in nutrients that boost eye health can also stave off eye diseases like macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma.

Keep All Routine Eye Exams

Maintaining all of your regular eye exams is critical for eye health, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms. Many eye diseases develop gradually, with little if any symptoms at first. Routine eye exams with a board-certified eye doctor can detect problems in their early stages, when they are easier to treat.

Elman Retina Group is dedicated to providing you with the best retinal care possible. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Elman or Dr. Schechet, please contact one of our Baltimore area offices today.