Cambridge, Massachusetts, May 1 — May is Healthy Vision Month, and PlenOptika, maker of the QuickSee handheld autorefractor, urges all optometrists to reach out to patients with eye care information that helps to maintain healthy vision, could save their vision, and possibly even save their lives.

“Many patients only go to the eye doctor when they experience a vision change, or notice some other symptom. They don’t know they should have regular, comprehensive eye exams and vision testing to maintain healthy vision, monitor eye health and overall health,” noted Shivang Dave, PhD, CEO of PlenOptika, Inc. A Harris Poll conducted among more than 3,500 U.S. adults shows only around one-third of adults (37%) know you do not always experience symptoms before you lose vision to eye diseases that are prevalent here, and are even more sight-threatening in many other nations around the globe.

Following are healthy vision facts from the National Eye Institute (NEI) that ODs should share with patients this month:

1. Why do I need to maintain my healthy vision? If your eyes feel healthy, it’s easy to assume they are healthy. But many eye diseases don’t have any warning signs — so you could have an eye problem and not know it. The good news is there’s a lot you can do to set yourself up for a lifetime of seeing well.

2. Get the benefit of the latest technology. If you haven’t been in for an eye exam for a year or more, you’ll likely be impressed with the new technology in your doctor’s office. Eye care technology is ever evolving. A great example is QuickSee™, the world’s most accurate handheld autorefractor. Vision professionals have used QuickSee on over 2 million patients in more than 30 countries to transform their lives with clear vision.

3. Do I need a dilated eye exam? It depends on your risk for eye disease. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you. Get a dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years if you:

• Are over age 60
• Are African American and over age 40
• Have a family history of glaucoma
• If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, ask your doctor how often you need an exam. Most people with diabetes or high blood pressure need to get a dilated eye exam at least once a year.
  
  

4. There are lots of ways to keep your eyes healthy — from wearing your sunglasses to eating eye-healthy foods, like salmon and kale. You should also maintain overall health by staying physically active, and if you smoke, quit.

5. Everyday ways to protect your eyes and vision:

• Wear sunglasses all year round.
• Wear protective eyewear while playing sports (make sure your kids do, too) or doing home repairs.
• Give your eyes a rest from digital screens: Take a break every 20 minutes to look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• If you wear contacts, care for them properly to prevent eye infections.