What Women Need to Know about Eye Health
- Posted on: Dec 15 2016
Research suggests that more women are affected by serious eye disease than men. Some could assume that the 3:2 ratio is associated with the fact that many women live longer than men, but that is not the case. Studies do not indicate exactly why women should be more watchful over their eye health, but we do know that lifestyle factors and heredity play at least a small role.
Being a woman doesn’t have to put you into a precarious situation with your vision. Here, we will discuss a few of the ways every person can promote long lasting eye health.
Live Well
Several studies have linked certain lifestyle factors to the breakdown of structures in the eye. These include factors such as obesity and tobacco use. Some of the ways that you can protect your eyes as you go through life include:
- Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise. A healthy weight often means lower blood pressure. In general, as well, exercise is good for all parts of the body, even the eyes.
- Avoid the use of tobacco products. Smoking and other tobacco use impedes oxygenation, which is necessary for cellular renewal. According to studies, people who smoke have a significantly higher risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Because family history has an effect on your eye health, it pays to know if others in your family have been diagnosed with eye diseases, or other health conditions that directly affect the eyes, such as diabetes.
- Speak with your eye doctor about your personal health history so you know how best to avoid secondary consequences, such as degeneration of eye health.
Eat Well
- Flavinoids are plant chemicals that are categorized as phytonutrients. Those that are found in tea and citrus fruits, among other foods, support the structures of the eyes.
- The risk of cataracts and macular degeneration can be reduced with beta-carotene, found in carrots and other richly-colored foods such as spinach and kale. These foods also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which further protect ocular structures.
Avoiding Injury
No one expects to sustain an eye injury, and yet approximately half a million people are affected each year. Most eye injuries can be prevented, you just have to know how to go about it:
- Anytime you work outside, clean the house, or build something, there is a risk of flying debris. It could be a drop of some chemical solution, a sliver of wood, a rock or some other natural object. Whatever enters the eye poses a threat. To reduce this risk, wear protective lenses each time you perform work around the house.
- Contact lenses should be worn and cleaned only as directed.
- Do not use cosmetics or skin care around the eyes after the expiration date.
One of the best things to do for your eyes is to schedule a yearly eye exam. Call Roholt Vision Institute for your exam.
Posted in: Eye Care