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Eye Care Awareness Month will be commemorated from 21 September to 18 October to raise global awareness and encourage conversations about the importance of eye health, specifically the prevention and treatment of avoidable blindness.
Spec-Savers head of optometry, Wesley Language, says that many people are not aware that 75% of eye disorders and diseases can be treated or even prevented if caught early. “Many eye diseases and conditions do not have obvious signs or symptoms, especially when they are in the early stages. Having a professional eye examination every 24 months means you can detect an eye disorder early, allowing timely treatment which dramatically improves the long-term prognosis.”
Here are a few of the reasons why regular eye exams are a must:
They detect eye problems early
Even if you score 20/20 on a vision test, you may still have the early onset of eye problems. Some sight-threatening eye diseases do not have early warning signs, and many can only be detected during an eye exam. The brain creates sight but is very adaptable and this can be the reason for not noticing any visual loss until it’s severely affected. For example, half of all people with glaucoma, a disease that can lead to blindness, are unaware that they even have the disease.
They can detect serious health problems early too
You’re fit and healthy and haven’t seen a doctor in years. But surviving serious health conditions depends on early detection too, and by the time you start noticing symptoms and finally get to a doctor, there may be complications that are difficult or impossible to fix. Many health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are often first detected during a routine eye exam. This is because the eye is the only place where blood vessels can be viewed in their natural state without a surgical procedure, and changes in the blood vessels of the eye or fluctuations in vision often lead to the first diagnosis of these common diseases.
They give your child the best chance to learn
80% of learning is through the visual system, and decreased vision can significantly affect educational success, athletic ability and even social interaction. Countless children are getting poor grades simply because they cannot see the blackboard, causing them to lose their desire to learn and stunting their social skills. While most parents recognise the value of routine dental care, they often underestimate the importance of testing a child’s vision. The reality is that it is so important that Spec-Savers offers free eye tests, lenses and frames to all South African children between six and 12 years of age through their Kids Right to Good Sight initiative.
They help protect against digital eye strain
Modern technology has led to a dramatic increase in screen time for all ages, with much of our work, school and social lives now happening on a screen or device. Your optometrist can help ease the visual strain by prescribing customised blue light computer glasses. These lead to visual improvement, reduce symptoms caused by glare exposure and will correct any astigmatism you may have.
“We also recommend using adequate lighting and reducing glare; adjusting your monitor’s brightness, contrast and colour monitor display settings; and regularly resting your eyes while working on a screen,” says Language. “Keep the 20/20/20 rule in mind: every 20 minutes look away from your screen at something that is 20 feet (6 metres) away from you for 20 seconds. This allows your eyes to relax and can alleviate symptoms.”
They screen for sun damage
Every day we are exposed to the sun’s UV rays. While sun damage is more closely linked to skin cancer, the threat to your eyes is just as significant. While wearing UV-blocking sunglasses (those labelled UV 400) is essential, it’s important that your optometrist screens regularly for the potential risks from sun exposure such as macular degeneration and cataracts.
Your optometrist is your partner in eye health
Language cautions that it’s also important not to ignore symptoms of eye disorders or diseases. “Visit your Spec-Savers optometrist as soon as possible if you have decreased vision, eye pain, drainage or redness of the eye, double vision, diabetes, or if you see flashes of light, floaters (tiny specks that appear to float before your eyes), or halos around light sources.”
Your eyes are among your greatest assets and proactively looking after them is paramount. Your optometrist is a vital member of your team of health advisors and dedicating an hour of your time every 24 months to get your eyes tested and discuss any concerns you have will determine whether or not you are able to see clearly throughout your life. Spec-Savers makes it easy: book online at any of their330 stores countrywide – and start your eye care journey today!