Why Do I Need A Yearly Eye Exam?

You don’t wear glasses or contacts and haven’t had any problems with your eyes. So, why would you need to go to the eye doctor every year? Like most people you’d be surprised to know that there is more to an eye exam than just checking your vision. Here are three reasons why you should visit your eye doctor every year.

1. Early Signs of Chronic Diseases like Diabetes

Your eyes reveal a lot about your overall wellness. An eye exam can detect early signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Regular eye exams are critical because what may seem like a vision-related problem might be an indication of a broader health issue.

2. Some Eye Diseases Are Symptom-Free

What do glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration all have in common? All these conditions share a common characteristic—no early warning signs. Getting an annual eye exam can help detect health conditions before they progress and may help preserve your vision. 

3. Your Vision Might Not Be as Clear as You Think

You may think your vision is clear, but many people are often surprised to discover they aren’t seeing as well as they thought they were. You may not notice that your vision changed, but an eye exam can reveal if you need glasses or contacts – or an update to your current prescription to ensure you’re seeing as clearly as possible.

Schedule your annual check-up at either of our two offices

(909) 596-6756  2443 Foothill LaVerne CA 91750 

(909) 982-0100  1637 Mountain Ave Upland CA 91784

www.drboyeroptometrist.com

Can Your Eyes Get Sunburned?

The simple answer is YES! Our skin and our eyes are organs. This makes them susceptible to the elements, which mean that like our skin, our eyes can become sunburned from prolonged exposure. There are simple things you can do to prevent photokeratitis, which is essentially damage to the cornea from sunlight exposure. Cataracts and macular degeneration are some of the long-term issues linked to prolonged UV exposure.

3 Ideas for Protecting Your Eyes in the Summer

• SUNGLASSES! Wearing protective eyewear is an essential for summer. There are a lot of great stylish sunglasses to choose from that can protect your eyes while keeping you looking great. Larger frames will always protect more of your face so consider oversized styles for prolonged exposure. Also, when shopping for sunglasses, the most important feature to keep in mind is full UV coverage. You want to look for a sticker that says UV 400 which covers UVA and UVB lights or 100% UV protection.
• Large brim hats are very much in style right now. When outside and exposed to the sun, wear one that shades your eyes.
• While at the pool, beach, lake, or river, consider an umbrella to create a shaded spot for yourself and your family.

How Are Sunburned Eyes Treated?

There are things you can do to make yourselves more comfortable while waiting for it to resolve. These include:

• Applying a cold compress to the eyes. A cold wash cloth over the eyes can reduce pain and swelling.
• Using artificial gel teardrops or a lubricating ointment. This can reduce the gritty or sandy feeling in the eye.
• Taking over-the-counter pain medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the eye.
• Avoiding further sunlight exposure. Don’t worsen your existing injury.

Don’t Forget About Those Overcast Days

Even on days when you don’t see the sun, your eyes are exposed to UV rays. Wind, glare, and ultraviolet radiation exposure are always present. Regardless of the time of year, sporting the right protective eyewear is important for your overall eye health. Avoid the short and long-term effects of UV damage (and look stylish) by simply throwing on a pair of shades year-round.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, and safe summer!

Haven’t had your annual eye exam yet? Call for an appointment today.(909) 596-6756  2443 Foothill LaVerne CA 91750 

(909) 982-0100  1637 Mountain Ave Upland CA 91784

www.drboyeroptometrist.com