Preventing Eye Problems

There are several things you can do to prevent eye problems. Keep up with appointments at Dr. Dennis in Murfreesboro, TN.

Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption

In addition to increasing liver disease and certain cancers, alcohol can affect your long-term eye health. Alcohol has been known to make symptoms of DED worse, where your eyes don’t make enough tears. Heavy consumption is also associated with age-related macular degeneration.

Stop Smoking

A history of cigarette smoking is associated with an increased risk of AMD. Smoking as also been linked to the start of cataracts and diabetic retinopathy.

Protect Eyes from the Sun

High levels of exposure to ultraviolet light can be a risk factor for many different eye conditions, including cancer and cataracts. Many brands of prescription glasses will have a UV filter but not all sunglasses are going to be providing enough protection.

Reduce Your Screen Time

With an increasing reliance on digital devices, it has now contributed to an increase in computer-related eye symptoms, such as computer vision syndrome. There can be four categories of this syndrome, including eyestrain, painful or dye eyes, difficulty focusing, or other symptoms. There are different ways to reduce eye strain from digital devices but it’s important to take breaks from the screen often to prevent eye problems.

Have Regular Eye Appointments

Having regular eye appointments and vision tests are important and recommended every two years. However, higher-risk patients are also recommended to have more frequent visits. Those who are high risk include those with additional risk factors for glaucoma or have a family history of eye problems, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

Follow Contact Lens Hygiene Advice

The wrong use of contact lenses can lead to problems. It’s important to follow contact lenses hygiene advice carefully. You need to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses and you shouldn’t use tap water to clean your lenses. Instead, use a specific type of contact solution.

Be Careful with Eye Drops

If you are supposed to be using eye drops to help with any eye problems, you need to use them according to instructions.

Call Dennis Eye Care Today!

Visit Dr. Dennis in Murfreesboro, TN, to make sure you are up to date on your eye care.