It is important to get your eyes tested at least once every two years.
However, if it has been a while since you had your last appointment, you might not be sure of what the next steps you should take after having them checked out.
Eye tests can provide your optician with plenty of information about your eye health and vision needs. At the same time, they can hint at broader health issues and provide a baseline for which your sight can be compared the next time you book an eye test with 1001 Optometry or a similar company.
But in between them, you owe it to yourself to look after your eyes as best as you can. So, to help you do that, we’ve put together this overview of what post-eye test care measures you should take.
- Understand Your Results
The first thing to do is to take the time to fully understand the results of the eye test you just had.
During it, your optometrist will provide you with detailed results, which could include specific prescription details – if there is a need for you to have corrective lenses.
They will also advise of any signs of health issues like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, or diabetic eye disease that you show signs of or are at risk of.
To better help you understand the current state of your eye health, make notes or ask the optician to provide you with a written outline of any areas of concern or that you need to address.
- Be Mindful of the Effects of Dilation
Sometimes, your eyes might get dilated during your eye test, which may result in you experiencing blurry vision and light sensitivity for several hours after it.
In these circumstances, it is a good idea to wear sunglasses (even indoors) for a while, as your eyes might be a bit more sensitive to bright light.
It is also advisable to limit tasks like reading, computer work, and driving, as they can be particularly challenging right after dilation. Instead, rest your eyes as much as possible.
- Choose the Right Type of Eyewear
If you have been recommended to wear glasses or contact lenses, there are several things you will need to take into account when considering which type to get.
These include the style and fit of the frames and special features such as anti-reflective coatings and blue light filters, which can help reduce eye strain and improve your levels of comfort. Particularly if you work in front of screens or drive for prolonged periods.
It is worth taking the time to find the best option for you as this will go a long way towards safeguarding your eyes well into the future.
- Make the Recommended Lifestyle Adjustments
During your appointment your optometrist may have recommended you make certain lifestyle changes to protect your vision – especially if your eye test shows early signs of strain or other issues.
These might include practicing the 20-20-20 rule if you spend a lot of time on computers, phones, or tablets, which states that you should take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes.
They may also have suggested wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection to safeguard your eyes from the potential damage UV rays can cause every time you are outside.
Additionally, you may have been advised to incorporate more foods, such as leafy greens, salmon, carrots, and citrus fruits – rich in vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids – that are linked with improved eye health.
- Look After Your Eyes
After your test, it is important to step up your game when it comes to looking after your eyes.
One of the best things you can do is always ensure you remain hydrated because dry eyes can be particularly uncomfortable. It is recommended that men drink at least 2.5 litres of water every day and women around 2 litres.
You should also take measures to ensure you get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep every day and not spend too long looking at electronic devices.
Additionally, if you wear contacts, make sure you clean them as instructed and do not sleep in them unless they’re approved for extended wear.
Here are some other tips for looking after your eyes, particularly as you get older.
- Contact Your Optometrist with Questions
After your appointment, and in the period before your next one, you might have some questions or concerns about the state of your eyes or your sight in general.
If you do, it is important to raise them with your optician, who will be able to provide you with support either by phone, email or in person.
- Go To Your Follow-up Appointment
Life gets busy for all of us mums. However, it is important to go to your follow-up appointment because our eyes can deteriorate without us really noticing.
The thorough analysis an optician does will be able to provide you with a good progress report on the current state of your eyesight.
They will also highlight whether there is anything you need to be concerned about or if you have any issues you need to address – which is always best done early.
THIS IS A SPONSORED ARTICLE