Eye Exercises to Assist with Boulder Eye Care

Just like any other muscle in the human body, eyes need regular exercise in order for them to stay healthy. While eye exercises cannot alter the eye’s basic anatomy, they can help the eyes to continue to do intense eye usage tasks such as computer work and television watching. For any other problems, there is always good eye care Boulder.

Exercises for the eyes help with eye care in Boulder

Comedienne W. C. Fields was once quoted as saying that whenever he thought of exercise, he laid down and waited for the thought to pass. Exercise is not always a welcome topic, but these eye exercises are simple and do not require a lot of time to perform:

1. Blinking the eyes

When people blink, their eyes segue into a brief phase of darkness that refreshes their eyes, encourages moisture in the eyes, reduces eyestrain, relaxes the focus, and soothes the eyes. Blinking every three to four seconds for a period of two minutes can help computer-strained eyes be ready for more work.

Blinking or not blinking is also helpful in interpersonal relations because a blink-less stare is a sign of aggression. Blinking can defuse a super-charged atmosphere and ensure that the other party doesn’t feel under attack.

2. Palming the eyes

Palming the eyes is as simple an exercise as blinking, but it can make a huge difference in the way the eyes feel and it can positively impact a person’s working day. It is done by taking a few deep breaths, then placing the cup of the palm of both hands over the eyes. The fingers rest on the cheekbone and the heel of the hands rests on the cheekbone. Done properly, a person is still able to blink when the eyes are palmed.

As a yoga exercise, it is done by:

• Sitting quietly with eyes closed, taking deep breaths to relax completely.

• Rubbing the palms together vigorously until they become warm, and then lacing them over the eyes so that the warmth from the palms can be felt.

• Allowing the warmth to be transferred onto the eyes to relax the eye muscles while the eyes are encased in darkness.

• Holding this position until the heat from the palms has dissipated.

• Keeping the eyes closed, repeating the process at least three full times.

3. Tracing the figure eights

This exercise is first done by imagining an upright figure eight approximately ten feet in front, and then tracing the figure eight with the eyes for a few minutes. Next the figure eight is turned on its side horizontally but still facing forward, and a repeat of the tracing is performed.

4. Focusing near and far

With the person in a seated position and taking deep breaths, the thumb is placed approximately 10 inches in front of the person’s face, becoming a focal point. The person alternates focusing on the thumb and something 10-20 feet away with each intake of breath, doing this for two to three minutes.

5. Zooming is similar to focusing

From a seated position, the arm is extended in front with the thumb upraised to a fully stretched out position, and then moved to about 3 inches from the face. The focus remains on the thumb while the thumb moves from near to far and back again for approximately 3 minutes.

These eye exercises will not change the shape of a person’s eye or change the need for eye care in Boulder, but they will help the eyes on a day-to-day basis.

5 Main Health-Related Aspects Emphasized by Reliable Eye Care in Boulder

Having good vision is an important asset at any age. This is precisely why a good eye doctor in Boulder will always strive to offer their patients the best guidelines on how to protect their eyes and minimize threats that could lead to excessive fatigue, redness, low vision and several other health concerns impacting people’s ability to work, as well as their health and overall well-being.

Key Aspects Highlighted by Professional Eye Care in Boulder during Routine Check-ups

Aside from creating and implementing treatment plans tailored to the nature and extent of each medical issue reported by patients, the experts employed by eye care centers will also highlight the importance of the five key aspects listed below. These contribute a great deal to improved eye health and better vision.

1. A Good Diet Supports Better Vision. To begin with, many professionals recommend dietary changes supporting an improved vision. Recent studies indicate that better eye health can be achieved and maintained by eating certain categories of foods, such as oily fish, citrus fruits, beans, nuts, eggs and green leafy vegetables, on a regular basis.

2. A New Lifestyle as a Non-Smoker. Moreover, each appointment scheduled by a patient is a good opportunity for a provider in Boulder to remind individuals just how important it is to avoid smoking. Statistics show that smokers are more likely to develop one or more medical concerns linked to eye health, such as optic nerve damage, cataracts or macular degeneration. A good eye doctor could even help the patient select and implement the best personalized strategies to give up smoking.

3. The Importance of Wearing the Right Type of Glasses. Also, a specialist will allow patients to identify, buy and wear the best type of sunglasses designed to protect the eyes from UV rays. Extensive UV exposure may increase the likelihood of getting macular degeneration and cataracts, so it is extremely important for patients to invest in quality sunglasses that manage to block anywhere from 99% to 100% of the UVB and UVA rays that they are exposed to on a daily basis. A good eye doctor can recommend the best sunglasses for each individual based on his or her unique needs. For instance, drivers may require polarized lenses to minimize glare, while people requiring the highest level of protection against UVA/UVB rays may need wraparound lenses, which safeguard the eyes from side to side.

4. The Importance of Using the Most Suitable Eyewear at Work. Furthermore, a specialist can guide patients towards the simplest and most effective ways to shield their eyes in their working environment. For example, people handling potentially hazardous materials should wear protective goggles at work. Individuals playing certain sports, such as lacrosse or rugby, should wear quality protective equipment. These can include helmets featuring protective face masks or durable, solid sports goggles that come with sturdy polycarbonate lenses to avoid injuries during daily activities.

5. Expert Advice on How to Cope with Daily Stressors. Last but not least, during a first consultation, professional eye care Boulder will also provide personalized advice to his or her patients, aiming to prevent or address concerns associated with daily stressors, such as staring at computer screens for long periods of time. This issue can lead to several negative effects, including eyestrain, blurry vision, headaches and difficulties focusing at a greater distance. Fortunately, all these complications can be avoided through a sequel of steps, including repositioning the computer, avoiding glare on the screen from light sources and windows, and wearing the most suitable type of contact lenses or glasses.

Sight Defenders: Bilberry and Lutein for Great Eye Care in Boulder

Although neither of them appears with a cape or a mask, both Bilberry and Lutein are major sight defenders. They are not faster than a speeding bullet or able to leap tall buildings with a single bound, but they can quickly restore one’s vision to near normalcy when macular degeneration begins to creep in.

The Benefits of Lutein

When it comes to eye care Boulder, lutein is a major sight defender. Lutein (pronounced LOO-teen) is a pigment that is one of the over 600 known carotenoids occurring in nature. Lutein is in egg yolks, corn, spinach, broccoli, kale, turnip greens, collards, lettuce, okra, and carrots.

It can also be found in eye tissues such as the retina’s pigment and parts of the lens. Lutein appears to have a role in slowing age-related degeneration of these tissues. Research indicates that there is a direct correlation between lutein ingestion and eye pigmentation. Furthermore, lutein may absorb blue light and cause a 90 percent reduction in blue light intensity.

Supplementation with lutein helps when:

●     Allergies to lutein-rich foods preclude a person’s being able to eat sufficient amounts of it

●     Illness, age, or genetic predisposition cause a person’s digestive system to be functioning sub-optimally

●     People consume foods grown in poor soil that is pesticide-laden and chemically fertilized, as these foods are nutrient-depleted.

Lutein has become popular as a supplement either alone or in combination with bilberry and zeaxanthin for daily eye support and for the improvement and prevention of visual problems such as macular degeneration. Humans eat about 1 to 3 mg of lutein per day.

Benefits of Bilberry

Bilberry is another antioxidant that is very helpful for eye care. It is known by many names: fraughan, myrtle blueberry, whortleberry, whinberry, blueberry, and winberry. It grows as a shrub in temperate climates and produces a fruit that can be eaten fresh or used in preserves or desserts. There is also a drink that is made from it: bilberry liqueur. In addition to helping with eye care, the leaves from bilberry are also used to treat diabetes, high blood pressure, hardening of the arteries, typhoid fever, and kidney stones.

The anthocyanosides in bilberry have been demonstrated to strengthen blood vessels and the walls of capillaries, improve the flexibility of red blood cells allowing them to better deliver oxygen, and cause a stabilization in collagen tissues such as tendons, cartilage, and ligaments. These anthocyanosides also lower cholesterol. 

Within the eyes, the anthocyanosides in bilberry increase pigments of the retina, which allows light to be more tolerable to the eye. It is thought that the ability of bilberry to improve eyesight and night vision is due to the fact that there is a high concentration of capillaries in the eye that can receive more oxygen and other nutrients thanks to the increased flexibility of the red blood cells and the vasodilating (opening) effect of bilberry on the capillaries.

Bilberry, Lutein and Zeaxanthin: the Triple Threat for Eye Care in Boulder

Bilberry and lutein together make the perfect caped defenders of one’s eyesight. They work even better when they are joined by zeaxanthin. This threesome is a great additive to a regimen of eye care in Boulder.

10 Times an Eye Care Exam Is Needed

For both new residents to the Colorado area and those who are looking to change vision providers, it’s important to understand the necessity and complexity of eye care boulder. Because this area is at high elevation and has on average 245 sunny days out of the year, proper eye care is essential. Fully understanding when it’s important to receive an eye exam is beneficial for both short- and long-term health and happiness.

Receiving Proper Eye Care in Boulder Is Easy According to the American Optometric Association, there are specific guidelines to aim for when deciding to schedule an eye exam. Stay on top of eye care in Boulder by scheduling these 10 necessary appointments. There are three suggestions for children under 18 and seven recommendations for adults. 1. Children should receive an eye exam at six months of age. This early exam can be especially helpful at screening for developmental delays, familial eye diseases, and turned, or crossed, eyes. 2. Children should receive a second exam before age three. This exam prepares children before they enter preschool, ensuring that their eyesight is clear and that their vision skills are developing on track. 3. After school age, low-risk or asymptomatic children should receive an exam every two years, unless a doctor specifically recommends more frequent exams.

Adults should have an eye exam every two years after age 18. Regular eye exams allow doctors to monitor for degenerative diseases, but it’s recommended that adults have these seven additional eye exams. 1. When working a job with potential eye hazards, such as construction or demolition, or when working with chemicals. Whether eye protection is worn regularly or not, an eye exam should be scheduled at least once a year when working in a high vision-risk job or a position with significant eye strain. 2. After developing diabetes or high blood pressure. Heart health isn’t the only thing to be concerned about when diagnosed with these diseases—regular vision exams can help prevent or stop degeneration. 3. Before eye surgery. For a comprehensive understanding of eye health needs, most doctors will schedule an extensive exam before surgery. 4. After an eye injury. Even after healing an eye injury, it’s important to have a doctor take a closer look to check for permanent damage or treat current issues.

5. When taking medicine that could affect eye health or pose a risk to vision. It doesn’t matter whether the medication is over the counter or prescription; it’s important to have an eye doctor conduct vision exams when taking any medication that has eye-related side effects.

6. Any adult who wears contact lenses should have annual eye exams. Although helpful for both vision and aesthetics, contact lenses can also reshape the corneas, causing rubbing and pain. Routine exams can locate and eliminate problems before they start or before they become too complicated to handle through non-invasive methods. 7. When genetics indicate a history of eye diseases. Illnesses like glaucoma and macular degeneration can be caught early if adults, especially those over age 60, receive regular eye exams.

How Dry and Wet Macular Generation Differ

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a disorder that slowly destroys central vision, making it hard to read or see small details.  It is most commonly linked to patients older than 60. There are two kinds, dry and wet.   An important part of eye care Boulder is checking at-risk patients for signs of either type.

AMD develops in the retina, a structure at the back of the eye that translates images and light into signals that reach the brain.  The portion of the retina known as the macula provides sharp, detailed vision.  Damage to blood vessels that support the macula causes harm to that structure and compromises vision.

Dry AMD

Of AMD sufferers, 90 percent have the dry type.  As it develops, the macula’s layers continue to thin.  They become less effective, a condition called atrophy. 

In the early stages, an eye doctor can see changes in the color of the macula.  Drusen, which are small piles of waste from eye cells, collect on the retina.  They can cause it to atrophy.  Almost everybody who is older than 50 has some drusen. 

Dry AMD does not progress beyond discoloration of pigment.  This form gets its name from the fact that it involves no leakage of fluid from blood vessels in the eye.  Almost all AMD patients initially have the dry form.

Blurred vision is the most common sign.  Eventually, a spot in the middle of the visual field appears darker and bigger.  Anything in the central field of vision might look dim or faded.  Treatment includes a combination of antioxidants, specific vitamins, and zinc.

Wet AMD

One of every 10 cases of AMD is the wet form.  The wet AMD name refers to the fact that blood vessels leak.  Wet AMD occurs when new blood vessels form in the choroid layer, behind the retina.  This development is called choroidal neovascularization.

The new vessels leak blood, other fluids, and lipids.  As the leakage permeates the macula and other layers of the retina, scar tissue forms.  Retinal cells no longer function. 

Sufferers note that straight lines look wavy and distorted.  Central vision loss can be quick.

Among treatments for wet AMD are laser surgery to destroy leaking vessels and painless eye injections of medication to stop the formation of new blood vessels.  Photodynamic therapy uses a light to activate an injected drug designed to destroy leaking vessels.

The Basics of Eye Care to Maintain Strong Vision

Vision specialists love to meet patients who feel invested in their eye health, so anyone seeking eye care Boulder is welcome to do their homework before making their first appointment so they can ask plenty of questions. Professional ophthalmology staff workers will do everything they can to answer questions to help patients feel comfortable with their chosen eye care provider. Many vision practices will even offer an educational guide, whether in print, online or both, to make sure their patients always have easy access to a reference guide.

Questions might range from administrative concerns, such as payment options and scheduling issues to various eye conditions, but each question is important, and eye care professionals know how important it is to engage their patients to make sure they keep appointments to maintain good eye health.

What Are Some of the Basics of Eye Care That Patients Can Focus on to Maintain Strong Vision?

Everything from administrative matters to specific eye diseases are important concerns for patients committed to taking good care of their vision. It may seem like a lot of information, but once patients talk to their vision specialists and their staff, as well as reading the appropriate literature, they will feel confident in proceeding with appointments, prescriptions and any necessary treatments. Vision care patients might consider noting some of the following items to help them become acquainted with what it takes to keep their eyesight in good condition.

• Placing Vision Specialists' Vital Information in Their Calendar. Whether patients have adopted electronic scheduling practices, or they still use a bound paper planner, it is important to keep their vision specialist's vital information, in case of emergencies or the need to cancel an appointment. Keeping this information is especially important for patients who undergo complex procedures that require follow-up, so they never have to worry about finding help if they feel that something is wrong.

• Making a List of Symptoms. For new eye care patients, it is important to do some self-assessment before visiting their eye doctor to help their ophthalmologist make the quickest and most accurate diagnosis possible. Patients should note any issues they have, such as blurred vision or problems driving at night.

• Asking Questions About Eye Protection. Perhaps patients are visiting for a check-up to make sure they keep healthy vision. If so, they might ask their vision specialist about different ways to protect their healthy eyesight. Everything from the sun's UV rays to a sudden change in diet might prove dangerous, and a vision specialist can help patients assess the risk.

Tips for Avoiding Digital Eye Strain

People who work at a computer for extended periods of time run the risk of suffering from eye strain. By following a few guidelines, computer users can avoid digital eye strain problems. Here are a few tips to help people get started.

Start with an Eye Exam

People who are wise will take steps to care for their vision. Proper eye care Boulder begins with scheduling regular eye exams. Through routine exams, doctors can keep tabs on a person’s eye health and alert them to problems early so they can get proper treatment. Early treatment can help prevent major problems later on.

Adjust Lighting

Bright lights reflecting off a computer screen can irritate the eyes. Closing curtains and blinds and using lower intensity light bulbs can help bring ambient light to a more appropriate level for computer use. Positioning a computer on the side of a window reduces reflection from outside lighting that can irritate the eyes.

Some people experience eye strain when using overhead fluorescent tube lighting during work hours due to excessive brightness. Floor lamps or full spectrum fluorescent lights may resolve the problem. Reducing outside lighting can minimize glare that can put a strain on the eyes. Eye glass users should consider investing in anti-reflective lenses to eliminate problems with glare.

Adjust PC Display Settings

Computer users can minimize problems with eye strain by adjusting the brightness and text size on their screen. The brightness on a computer screen should be similar to that of the surrounding lighting. Text should be large enough for people to see comfortably without straining their eyes. This may vary from person to person. Some people prefer a larger text when reading or typing for longer periods of time.

Take Breaks to Rest or Exercise Eyes

Taking frequent breaks from the computer will reduce the risk of eye discomfort and fatigue. It’s recommended that computer users take half a dozen 5-minute breaks throughout the day as opposed to only two long breaks. Frequent breaks will reduce the strain of focusing on one spot and help people stay awake and alert longer. Greater alertness can improve productivity.

Computer users should get in the habit of blinking often to keep the eyes well lubricated. It’s also good to exercise the eyes regularly to avoid eye fatigue from staring at a computer screen.

Proper eye care is the key to reducing eye problems and retaining good vision.