Eye Health and Exams

Getting older means that your body gradually changes.  That includes your vision and eye health.  Some of it depends on your activities like staring at a computer screen.  However, just like other physical issues, there are some things you can do to help.

Diet is one of those things.  Let’s start with the old standby, carrots.  They are high in lutein; Vitamins A, C, and E; beta carotene; omega-3s; zinc.  Other foods to incorporate are salmon, eggs, and almonds.  Always consult with your medical team before making any drastic changes, including incorporating supplements.

Exercise is another issue.  Yes, you can do some exercises that are specific to your eyes.  Ask about it at your next exam.

Speaking of which, comprehensive, annual eye exams are a must and you need to make it a priority in your medical regimen.  Check family history, if possible, to find out if there are any diseases or conditions that can affect your eyes.  Provide an accurate list of your medications at the exam.  Some prescriptions can affect the eye or vision.  Wear polarized sunglasses to prevent damage from ultraviolet rays.  If you are prescribed eye correction like glasses or contacts, use them appropriately.  If you smoke, stop.

An eye doctor can be an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.

One of the basic tests is a refraction.  You sit in a chair and look through a device that is sort of like really large glasses.  It is a phoroptor or refractor.  The technician or doctor will change lenses and ask if the chart is clearer with one lens versus the other.  There should be no discomfort although toward the end of the test it can be confusing about which lens makes things clearer…or not.  The results are recorded.  Then a specialized light is directed into your eyes and they decide whether or not your eyes need correction.    If you already wear contact lenses, be sure to mention that when you make the appointment.  They will tell you how long you need to be without them before the testing.

Normal vision is described as 20/20 or 6/6.  That means at 20 feet you see what is correct, or you can read 3/8 inch tall letters at 20 feet (or 6 meters).  You are also asked to read from a card to see the smallest print you can read with and without correction.

Results that are out of the range “normal” include astigmatism where the letters are blurry, hyperopia or farsightedness, myopia or nearsightedness, and presbyopia where you have difficulty reading close up, which usually happens in your 40s.

Depending on your medical history and the results, you may be tested for infections, macular degeneration, or problems with the retina.

Okay, earlier in this piece we mentioned exercises.  Ask about these options at your next exam.

• Focus
  • While you are seated, hold your index finger a few inches from your eye. Focus on that finger.  Slowly move the finger further from your eye but continue to hold it in focus.  Look a way briefly.  Now look at that finger again and bring your finger back close to your eye.  Look at something in the far distance to relax.
  • While seated, hold your thumb about 10 inches from your face and focus on it for 15 seconds. Focus on an object 10 to 20 feet away and focus on it for 15 seconds.  Return your focus to your thumb.
• Again, be seated comfortably. Select a point about 10 feet away on the floor and focus on it. Now, trace an imaginary figure eight with your eyes.  Do this several times and then switch directions.

Finally, if you look at a single object for extended periods of time, you probably will suffer some eye strain.  This includes computer screens, texting, reading, crafting, or other activities.  Every 20 minutes, look away and focus on something or someone at least 20 feet away.  It should help.

Your vision is something you should not take for granted.  Take care of it.