How Important is Eye Protection?

This question may read as being almost too easy. You’d be surprised, however, at the number of patients who visit SightMD who do not give their eyes the necessary protection they deserve. 

Why is eye protection important?

The eyes are probably the most important set of organs of the human body. Sight is perhaps the most vital sense that each of us possesses. (Admittedly, we at SightMD are biased. We know, however, the complications of what might happen if vision is not properly protected.) Just as the ears alert us through sound, the eyes keep us aware through sight. The eyes are also extremely delicate and, if subjected to injury, could be greatly damaged. This is why it is important to…

• Keep regularly scheduled eye exam appointments with your optometrist
• Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun
• If you work any place where chemicals, dust, concrete, metal, and wood particles might come in contact with your eyes, always wear goggles. This also applies to medical environments, where radiation machines are used and bloodborne pathogens may be present.
• To prevent or lessen eye strain from looking at a computer all day, remember to keep the “20-20-20” rule. (Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes, and look at something that is 20 feet away.)

The above is just a sample of the ways to protect your vision from damage or injury. Eye injuries can necessitate costly eye care or even eye surgery from an ophthalmologist. Wearing safety eyewear in your home, workshop, garage, yard, or workplace can protect your eyes from injury and damage. Your eye can sustain significant injury from airborne chemicals, dust, and debris, so it’s important to protect yourself from potential harm.

We at SightMD have witnessed any and every type of eye condition. Many of these eye-related problems—such as glaucoma or cataracts—are through no fault of the patients. And while “fault” is a harsh word, we’ve encountered also situations where eyes have been seriously affected, and all because a patient did not take the responsibility of following the four points listed above. Never underestimate the importance of eye protection. Contact us today to make an appointment for an eye exam at your nearest SightMD. We’d love to see you—and love to help you see better.