The great memories of Summer are coming to an end as the first day of Fall makes its debut this week on the 23rd. There is something about Fall that makes people fall in love with this beautiful season. Maybe having a pumpkin spice latte, seeing the tree’s foliage change, or a trip to the orchard can entice you to fall in love with the season every year. As the season changes, your eye health should be a top priority. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, here are a few tips to protect and ensure your eyes stay healthy this Fall.
Dismiss Dry Eyes That the Fall Air Brings
Spending time outdoors with a warm fire or fall breezes with family and friends can lead to burning, stinging, and watery eyes. The dry and cold air is the main reason causing dry eyes. Use artificial tears to keep your eyes moist, and try to avoid overly warm rooms or hairdryers, which are elements that can dry out your eyes even more. Talk with your eye doctor if the dry eye problem persists for treatment recommendations.
Avoid Problems From Costume Contact Lenses
The fall season includes a favorite holiday where we all love to say trick-or-treat, and many Halloween costumes include enhancement for a frightful look. However, it is best to avoid scary decorative contact lenses if they are not prescribed by your eye doctor who has examined your eyes. That leads to painful, sometimes blinding eye infections. Be sure to have an eye exam and get properly fitted for the colored contacts you want.
Raking Leaves? Protect Those Eyes!
When you rake or blow leaves, pieces of plant material can get into your eyes and cause an eye infection called fungal keratitis. Be sure to wear protective glasses or goggles to keep your eyes safe when doing any yard work.
Enjoy Fall Favorite Foods for Healthy Eyes
Reap the harvest of Fall’s healthy foods. This season’s fruits and vegetables offer a bountiful of eye-friendly nutrients, including antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin A, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoy these fruits and vegetables below at their fall peak:
- apples
- cauliflower
- pears
- pomegranates
- squash
- turnips
If you have additional questions about enjoying the outdoors this Fall or if you are due for your eye exam, call us TODAY to schedule your appointment.
Have a happy, healthy, and safe Fall season.
References: American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Optometric Association. This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided within this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.
