In recognition of National Save Your Vision Month, The Portland Clinic, Oregon's oldest private multi-specialty medical group, wants to remind families of the importance in receiving regular eye exams and maintaining good eye health. According to a recent study announced by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, an average of 50-percent of adults in the United States will suffer from at least one type of eye disease during their lifetime. Studies have shown that individuals who chose to take care of their eyes and seek routine eye exams have a smaller chance of developing a vision condition, or at least the ability to catch a problem at an early stage and begin treatment.

The Portland Clinic's recommendations for regular eye examinations
Young children should receive vision screenings by a pediatrician at their regularly scheduled physical examinations.  All children should have their vision checked prior to entering kindergarten.  According to Dr. Monika Malecha, an ophthalmologist at The Portland Clinic, approximately one in ten children may be diagnosed with amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossing eyes) or another eye problem.  If any problems with vision are detected by the pediatrician, discovered at a vision screening at school or suspected by the parents, the child should be referred for an eye examination.  

How often should adult eye examinations take place? The AAO's recommended intervals for eye exams are

• Age 20-29: Individuals of African descent or with a family history of glaucoma should have an eye examination every three to five years. Others should have an eye exam at least once during this period.
• Age 30-39: Individuals of African descent or with a family history of glaucoma should have an eye examination every two to four years. Others should have an eye exam at least twice during this period.
• Age 40-64: Individuals should have an eye examination every two to four years.
• Age 65 or older: Individuals should have an eye examination every one to two years.
• Patients with diabetes should receive yearly eye examinations

Simple tips to help keep those eyes healthy

• Eat good foods! - Based on research by the National Eye Institute, there is a positive correlation between healthy eyes and good nutrition. Studies have suggested that by eating foods rich in six nutrients - antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc - the chances of eye disease decreases. Healthy food choices to enjoy include:
  • Antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin - dark leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and collard greens
  • Beta-carotene - carrots
  • Vitamin C - oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, papaya, green peppers and tomatoes
  • Vitamin E - vegetable oils, almonds, pecans, wheat germ and sunflower seeds
  • Zinc - meat, liver, shellfish, milk, whole grains and wheat germ
• Work at the computer? - People who sit in front of a computer for long periods of time often encounter a variety of uncomfortable symptoms such as headaches, neck strain, backaches and wrist pain. However, eye and vision problems are the most frequently reported health care issue among computer users. Be conscious of blinking regularly and try to take small breaks throughout the day to give those eyes a rest.
• Wear sunglasses - It is important to wear sunglasses when out in the sun. Wearing sunglasses can help block out 99 to 100-percent of dangerous UV-A and UV-B rays. Studies show that exposure to ultraviolet light can contribute to a number of eye complications such as cataracts, macular degeneration and more.

Throughout March's National Save Your Vision Month, The Portland Clinic is reminding everyone to take care of those eyes!  To schedule an eye examination appointment with The Portland Clinic call 503.223.3113.  To learn more information about The Portland Clinic's Ophthalmology department please click here.

ABOUT THE PORTLAND CLINIC

Established in 1921, The Portland Clinic is Oregon's oldest, private, multi-specialty medical group.  Today, with sophisticated medical technology, modern spacious facilities, and dynamic medical specialists, a personal approach to each patient's good health remains The Portland Clinic's primary focus.  The Portland Clinic's four locations serve the greater Portland metropolitan area and care for over 75,000 families each year throughout the Northwest. For more information click here.