Eye Care Tips

Wearing sunglasses isn’t just useful for hiding a mulled-wine hangover… low winter sun can be dazzling and just as damaging to your eyes as Mykonos in July.

Heading to the slopes? Snow and ice are reflective, too, so the sun’s rays can reach your eyes from below as well as above. Good quality, protective sunglasses are a must.

Many of us have noticed that since spending more time indoors over the last couple of years, our screen time has increased. While there is no evidence of long-term damage to vision from prolonged screen use, it can cause tired eyes and symptoms of eye strain.*

DRY EYES are extremely common in the colder months, often worsened by central heating and increased screen time. Blinking less frequently, as we do when staring at a screen, means blinking regularly and using lubricating eye drops (if advised by your Optometrist) will help.

Time outdoors has been shown to reduce myopia (short-sightedness) progression among children. Chasing your child around the garden can also relieve stress—or increase it, depending on what they’re carrying in their hands!

Following the above advice is a great start, but the most fundamental tip is to have regular eye tests: for most people, every 2 years, unless specified by your Optometrist or general practitioner. Your Optometrist will check both the health of your eyes and your vision to determine whether you need glasses.

Here are a few tips to reduce computer-related eye strain:

• Position your screen at arm’s length and slightly below eye height.
• Angle your screen to minimize distracting reflections from windows.
• Take regular breaks: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• A blue light filter for your glasses has been shown to reduce the effects of blue light emitted from digital devices on sleeping patterns. We also recommend reducing screen use when it’s dark outside and using ‘night-time mode’ on digital devices where possible.

Conclusion

Prioritize finding a practice that is accessible, innovative, and highly-regarded optometrist in the community.

To uphold this standard, Cedar Park Vision is committed to offering top-tier eye care services. Let’s get you started with an eye examination –  schedule your eye exam today!