The month of April reminds us of two very important topics: Women’s Eye Health and Sports Eye Safety month. Rand Eye Institute is very aware of the importance of these two important topics as we see the daily consequences, they cause our patients. In Women’s Eyes Health prevention is key. This goes back to the importance of annual eye exams. On the other hand, for Sports Safety, protection is the name of the game. Keywords for April are Prevention and Protection.

The Prevent Blindness organization states that women have higher rates of eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration than men. Women also tend to have a higher rate of dry eyes and often deal with vision changes due to hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopause. It is important to note that women are usually the caregivers for the entire family, hence, the further importance of their eyesight. The National Eye Institute stated that women deal with greater instances of eye disorders because they tend to live longer lives than men. Therefore, women are more likely to undergo cancer treatments which affect their vision. Medications, Hormonal treatments, hormonal imbalances can produce vision changes. Annual Eye exams will detect most conditions which, if caught early, can be treated or controlled.

Sports Eye Safety is another important topic to reflect on. Accidents will happen when playing sports, but if you are protected, you will not get injured. Eye Protection should fit comfortably and protect eyes without compromising on your athletic performance. This is true especially when it comes to the health of your eyes.

Here are some tips when buying sports protection:

• Consult an eye care professional to get the best eye protection for your sports, hobbies, and lifestyle
• Ask your eye doctor to fit you with prescription eye protection if you need glasses
• Please remember that protection needs to be cushioned and well fitted to your face so that it does not cut the skin in case of contact with an object.
• Make sure the purchased eye protection fits well. Consult with an eye professional.

We are back to our two keywords. Prevention by attending your annual eye exams is very important for everybody but especially for women. And protection to prevent any injury. You can have fun and be fit without the fear of compromising your vision. Have a great and healthy month of April! Call 954-782-1700 for your annual eye exam.