Caring for Your Eyes

Young Adults - Ages 20 to 34

These are the years when many people ignore their eyes because vision has usually stabilized, and their lives are busy with advanced education, careers and family. Rather than scheduling regular eye examinations, the people in this age bracket often wait to visit the eye doctor until they need a change in prescription or they have an eye problem. However, with the surge in interest in laser vision correction and surgical options for correcting refractive error, many are seeing an eye doctor to find out whether they qualify.

Persons in this age group should schedule an eye exam every two years. Many eye diseases and disorders are detected early through exams, and gradual vision changes, although unnoticed, may be causing eye strain, headaches and other problems. Those who wear contact lenses should see an eyecare professional more frequently to ensure that the lenses are still a good fit and are not causing damage to their corneas.

Sunglasses and other protective eyewear are important.

Persons in this age group are normally very involved in outdoor activities, whether it be participation in sports, fitness activities, watching the children or working. Because of the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays on the eye's lens, it's crucial to always wear sunglasses outdoors. Choose those that block 99 percent to 100 percent of the sun's UVA and UVB rays. These sunglasses will provide maximum protection and help prevent the development of cataracts and macular degeneration, diseases that can destroy eyesight. Fortunately, sunglass manufacturers encourage the use of sun protection eyewear by a huge variety of attractive sunglass designs.

Proper eyewear during sports and recreational activities is important. Wear polycarbonate goggles for activities such as racquetball, basketball, and tennis, and wear UV-protective goggles or glasses for skiing. Everyone who participates in sports should wear protective eyewear, but it is especially important for those who have had refractive surgery. Because the primary reason to have vision correction surgery is to get rid of eyeglasses, it is sometimes tempting to also do away with protective eyewear. On the contrary, eyes that have had any kind of surgical procedure should always be well-protected from external hazards.

Take care when using a computer.

Computers now play a major role in the personal and business lives of many young adults, and excessive computer use is tough on the eyes. Unfortunately, it's not always possible to decrease the amount of time spent in front of a computer, especially if it's related to the job. Those in this age bracket will experience more and more eye irritation and fatigue from their video display terminals (VDTs). Symptoms include blurred vision and itchy, tired, and/or watery eyes. Employers have become much more aware of the problems associated with extended use of computers, but you should take steps to help alleviate the problem.

• Make sure your computer monitor is large enough - at least 17 inches - so your eyes have an easier time viewing.
• Use a glare-reduction screen, and adjust the monitor's contrast wheels to enhance the contrast on screen. Better contrast makes on-screen characters easier to read and eases eyestrain.
• Position the monitor at a comfortable level. You shouldn't be looking up at the screen. It's best for the monitor to be a few inches below eye level. Also, adjust your keyboard table and chair for added comfort.
• If you experience excessive glare on the screen, draw the blinds or shades part way on sunny days to avoid the natural inclination to squint, which tires the eyes.
• Remember to take 10-minute breaks every hour or so to look into the distance and give your eyes a chance to relax.

Remember to schedule your eye examinations.

Comprehensive eye exams should be scheduled every two years. More frequent exams should be scheduled if you are diabetic, your family has a history of eye problems, or you have previously diagnosed disorders or diseases that may affect your vision.