Tips for Maintaining Clear Vision and Protecting Your Eyes From Eye Floaters

Many people experience annoying flashes of light or spots that drift across their visual field as they age. These lights or spots are known as eye floaters. Eye floaters rarely indicate a serious eye disease, but they can obstruct your vision. You can take proactive measures to reduce the risk of eye floaters, though. Avery Eye Clinic in The Woodlands, Conroe, and Huntsville, TX, is here to offer tips to maintain healthy eyes and clear sight.

Routine Eye Exams

Comprehensive eye exams allow early detection of subtle changes that could lead to floaters and other age-related vision issues. Adults should have a baseline exam by age 40 and regular exams every 2 to 4 years until age 65. Adults should then have exams annually after age 65. It is important to note that testing for glasses does not substitute for a complete eye exam.

Control Systemic Issues

You can prevent eye complications in the future by managing health conditions like diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication. High blood pressure and high cholesterol can also impact ocular blood vessels and nerves. Keeping your overall health strong will ensure your eye health and vision remain strong.

Wear Protective Eyewear

Sunglasses help protect your eyes from UV rays from the sun. Safety glasses can also protect your eyes from any foreign objects or injury. You will want to choose eyewear that blocks 99 to 100 percent of UVA/UVB radiation. You should also use eyewear when you play sports or do yard work.

Quit Smoking

Smoking increases the risk of cataracts and optic nerve damage. The carcinogens and reduced blood flow caused by smoking accelerate the aging of your eyes. You should speak with your doctor about how to kick the habit of smoking to improve your long-term eye and overall health.

Monitor Medications

Certain medications like steroids can increase intraocular pressure or promote cataract formation. You should have regular eye exams to catch any changes before they become serious. Do not alter dosages or stop taking prescriptions without consulting your doctor. Always speak with your doctor first if you have any concerns.

Follow a Healthy Diet

Eating a diet with plenty of leafy greens and omega-3-rich fish can help improve your eye and vision health. These foods contain lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc that help filter damaging light rays and provide antioxidant protection against free radicals that can harm the eyes.

Stay Hydrated

You should drink plenty of water to maintain your eye and overall health. Dehydration can dry the vitreous gel in your eyes. Your eyes are more susceptible to eye floaters when this happens due to clumping and shrinking caused by vitreous degeneration.

Get Your Eyecare Needs From Avery Eye Clinic Today

Monitoring your overall health and getting routine comprehensive eye exams are the best ways to preserve your eyes and vision, so contact Avery Eye Clinic in The Woodlands, Conroe, and Huntsville, TX, to protect your vision today. Call us and schedule an eye exam at our Woodlands office at (281) 719-5214, our Conroe office at (936) 539-4500, or our Huntsville office at (936) 294-0218.