It’s no secret that the key to a healthy, long life is exercise, paired with a nutritional diet. However, with our busy schedules, it’s easy to forget the importance of routine doctor visits. May is Healthy Vision Month, a time when we’re reminded of the importance of annual eye exams. From children to seniors, and those of us in between, our eyes depend on routine maintenance as we age. Blindness is a growing problem around the world, and as the numbers of those afflicted with low vision continue to rise, scientists and doctors are working together tirelessly for innovations and potential cures. As medical technology continues to improve, doctors are typically able to detect and address a patient’s vision problems before too much damage occurs. Smaller fires are easier to extinguish than larger fires, and eyecare professionals can monitor our eyes as they change over the years, responding to abnormalities before they become bigger concerns. When it comes to low vision/ blindness prevention, early detection can make a huge difference.

Early detection is especially crucial for treating, and possibly halting the progression of the disease. By the time one begins to notice something different with their eyesight, it’s likely that a problem has been brewing for a while, which is why eye exams are so important. Using the latest state-of-the-art technology, Eye doctors can detect the early signs and symptoms of the most common causes of blindness, i.e. macular degeneration or glaucoma. Annual eye exams are also an excellent opportunity to make sure our prescriptions are up to date. If you ever experience a gradual or sudden change in your vision, such as difficulty driving or reading, you’ll be glad you have an eye doctor who can help. Our eyes are among the most used muscles in our bodies, as we’re always looking around, reading, and blinking; All the more reason to keep them in tip top shape. This is why your favorite eye doctor should have a home in your calendar.

The sooner a professional can diagnose your visual acuity, and map your eyes, they’ll then have a base point to follow and monitor any changes that may occur and respond accordingly. Eye doctors are familiar with the most beneficial eye care vitamins and dietary supplements, they may prescribe helpful glasses or contacts, or they will let you know if you’re a candidate for a particular procedure. Additionally, they’ll be happy to provide the best answers to all of your questions. For help with daily tasks, a doctor may also suggest some type of assistive technology, whether it be a low vision magnifier or computer software. Unfortunately, with many low vision diseases, depending on the progression, it may be too late for effective treatment, which is why it’s critical to develop a history with an eyecare professional as soon as possible. For this Healthy Vision Month, remember to stay up to date and take care of your eyes with the help of eyecare professionals.