Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
From checking your phone first thing in the morning to driving, reading, or watching your favorite show, your eyes work hard — and often without thanks. That’s why Healthy Vision Month, observed in July, is the perfect reminder to pause, take stock, and give your eyes the care they truly deserve. Whether you wear glasses or have never needed an eye exam, there's something here for you.
Common Eye Conditions
Most eye conditions can be managed or even reversed if caught early. Some frequently seen conditions include:
- Refractive Errors: Myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness), often corrected with Acuvue® contacts or Transitions® eyeglasses.
- Glaucoma: Pressure damages the optic nerve; treated with drops like latanoprost (Xalatan®) or timolol.
- Cataracts: Clouding of the lens; treated with surgery and post-op drops like ketorolac (Acuvail®).
- Presbyopia: Age-related difficulty seeing up close; often corrected with bifocals or reading glasses.
- Eye Infections: Conjunctivitis, keratitis, or ocular herpes; treated with ofloxacin, moxifloxacin, or ganciclovir drops.
- Diabetic Eye Diseases: Diabetic retinopathy and macular edema; treated with laser therapy or injectable medications like aflibercept (Eylea®).
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
Even if your vision seems fine, regular eye exams can detect issues early — sometimes before symptoms appear. Eye doctors can identify signs of:
- Glaucoma, which may not present symptoms early on
- Diabetic eye changes, even if blood sugar seems controlled
- High blood pressure or cholesterol, which can affect eye vessels The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a baseline exam at age 40, with more frequent exams after age 60 or earlier if you have risk factors.
Treatment Options for Eye Conditions
Treatment depends on the condition. Your eye doctor may recommend:
- Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses for refractive errors.
- Medicated Eye Drops:
- Latanoprost or brimonidine for glaucoma
- Tobramycin or moxifloxacin for infections
- Oral Medications:
- Acyclovir or valacyclovir for ocular herpes
- Azithromycin for bacterial infections
- Cataract Surgery with follow-up anti-inflammatory drops like prednisolone acetate.
- Laser Therapy for diabetic retinopathy or retinal tears.
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Lifestyle Choices for Eye Health
Every day habits can significantly impact your vision:
- Eat antioxidant-rich foods: leafy greens, carrots, omega-3-rich fish
- Take screen breaks: Use the 20-20-20 rule
- Quit smoking: Reduces risk of cataracts and macular degeneration
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection
- Use safety gear when handling chemicals or yard work
- Stay hydrated to prevent dry eyes
- Clean contact lenses properly to avoid infections
Worried About Digital Eye Strain?
Spending hours on screens can cause eye strain, blurred vision, and headaches. To reduce symptoms:
- Try blue light-blocking glasses
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
- Avoid screens an hour before bedtime to improve sleep
Don’t Forget Kids' Eyesight
Vision problems can interfere with a child’s learning and development. Pediatricians recommend:
- First eye exam at 6 months
- Follow-up at age 3
- Another before starting school
- Annual checkups if risk factors exist (e.g., family history of vision issues)
When to See a Doctor Immediately
Seek urgent care if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Sudden flashes of light or sparkles
- Shadow or curtain over part of your vision
- Rapid increase in floaters
- Sudden loss of central or side vision
Final Tip
If you're prescribed medications like antibiotic eye drops or oral antivirals, the RxLess™ Assurance Plan can help you save and make treatment more affordable and accessible. Protect your vision — it’s worth it.
