5 Different Ways to Protect your Eye this Fall

For San Franciscans, we know that October is our month!  October is when the sun finally comes out and kicks out the fog (Bye Karl!).  Then, for the rest of the world, October also means cooler temperatures.  In this blog, we’ve provided some helpful tips to keep your eyes safe, whether you reside in SF or in the Bay Area.  Or if you found this blog by happenstance and reside elsewhere.  These eye saving guidelines may help you as well.

1)  Always keep your sunglasses with you!  Not only will sunglasses make you look cooler, but sunglasses will protect your eyes from harmful rays.  Sunglasses are even important even on cloudy days.  Clouds do block some UV rays from reaching ground level but only if the clouds are thick.  Protect your eyes now and you will prevent the on-set of Cataracts and even eye cancers.  Sunglasses will also protect the area around the eyes which means fewer wrinkles!

2) Allergies are year-round and not just a springtime issue.  Common allergens such as pollen, mold, dust, and dander are all likely to affect individuals in the fall as well.  Windy fall weather means allergens may easily be picked up and blown around thus ending up in our eyes.  If you do experience itchy, red and watery eyes, then you may be suffering from allergies.  Many times, over the counter eyes drops will do the trick but if OTC medications don’t provide relief then make an appointment to see one of our doctors today by phone or by hitting the request button in the right-hand corner.

3) Wash your hands regularly.  Washing your hands will also help your eyes from diseases that could affect your eyes directly, such as conjunctivitis and other infections.  The good news is that hot water and soap is all it takes to kill these pesky germs.

4) A Healthy Diet.  In a blink of an eye, November and December will be here which means heavy meals, sweets, and holiday parties.  But whenever possible, it’s important to stick a healthy diet.  Foods like kale and spinach are healthy for both your eyes and overall health.  Grapefruit, strawberries, brussel sprouts, and green peppers are full of vitamin C which is a top antioxidant. Antioxidants help prevent Macular Degeneration.  Salmon, Sardines, and Herring contain omega-3 fatty acids that help your eyes fight inflammation.

5) Annual Eye Check-up.  Even if you don’t notice any vision changes an annual eye check-up is extremely important.  According to the American Optometric Association, a comprehensive eye exam is recommended every two years for adults ages 18 to 60.

These tips will make your autumn even more enjoyable and ensure that your vision stays healthy as well!