Why an eye exam should be part of your health kick this January

AFTER the indulgence of the festive period, many of us will be embarking on a health overhaul this month with many New Years’resolutions including improving diets and exercising more, but have you thought about making sure your eye examinations are up-to-date?

Susanne Akil, Specsavers’ Scottish Chair, explains why eye examinations should be a key part of your health check this January.

How often should I have an eye examination?

Susanne says:“we typically recommend having an eye examination every two years, unless your optician advises you to have one more frequently”.

How can an eye exam help monitor my health?

“Eye examinations not only help to monitor any changes in your vision but can spot sight-threatening conditions that you may not be aware of, such as cataracts, macular degeneration or glaucoma.

In some cases, they can even lead to wider health diagnoses such as high blood pressure and even in rare cases, strokes and brain tumours. That’s why it is important to have regular eye exams even if you have perfect vision.”

Is there anything else I can to do help look after my eyes?

“Some of the most common New Year’s resolutions are actually beneficial for the eyes. There are lots of healthy foods rich in eye-health boosting vitamins, such as essential for eye health, and oily fish such as salmon, is packed full of omega-3, which is great for eyes. Kiwi gives a burst of A, B and C vitamins, which help maintain healthy cells and tissues, meanwhile peppers contain zeaxanthin which help to absorb potentially damaging light.

“It is also thought that exercise and good cardiovascular health could be associated with a lower risk of eye disease, and even participating in Dry January can be good for your sight by reducing your chances of suffering from dry eye caused by dehydration.

“Stopping smoking can have an impact too with smokers more likely to develop eye conditions such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye).”

To find out more or book your next appointment head to your nearest Specsavers store or visit www.specsavers.co.uk.