Natalie Herrera, PA-C, Cucamonga Valley Medical Group
At CVMG, we care about your whole health, including eye health. Here are several tips to protect your vision and improve overall health.
Routine Checkups
Eye health is an important part of routine care. Children, adults, and seniors all benefit from regular vision screenings and eye exams. These visits help detect early signs of eye disease, including diabetes-related eye issues, and age-related vision changes. If it’s been a while since your last checkup, talk to our providers, we can help point you in the right direction.
Screen Protection
Screens are a part of daily life; from phones to tablets to computers. To reduce eye strain, especially for students or anyone working from home, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. An example of 20 feet distance is a school bus or from the back of the room to the front. Make sure screens are at eye level and that you’re in a well-lit space to avoid squinting. You may also wish to invest in blue-light filtering technology such as lenses and screen protectors that block some of the blue light emitted from these devices.
Healthy Eating
A balanced diet supports your body in maintaining healthy vision. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids—like leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, and fish—are especially good for vision. These vitamins help protect the eye from damaging free radicals and environmental pollutants. Encouraging healthy eating habits in your family can benefit eye health for everyone.
Proper Protection
Sun protection isn’t just for your skin. UV rays can damage the eyes over time, increasing the risk of cataracts and other issues. Make sure everyone in the family wears sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection, especially during the summer months and during outdoor activities or sports. Don’t forget about protective lenses on the job and during sports or recreational activities.
Symptoms
If you notice blurry vision, frequent headaches, eye pain, or anything unusual, don’t wait to see if it improves. These could be signs of an underlying issue that needs attention. Let one of our providers know, and we can guide you on next steps or refer you to an eye specialist if needed.
Know Your Risk
Are you living with a chronic illness that can harm your eyes? High blood pressure, diabetes and certain autoimmune conditions can affect the eyes. It is important to be aware of how your health conditions may impact your vision and what steps should be taken to protect eye health. Your family history is important too, as eye conditions are often hereditary. At your next visit, talk to one of our providers about what we can do to protect your eyes with your unique health profile and family history in mind.
It is important to prioritize eye health throughout your life, starting with awareness. As your family’s health partner, we’re here to support every aspect of your well-being, including your eyes. If you have questions or are due for a checkup, contact us to discus questions or concerns about eye health.
