Eye Health

Everyone knows eating green leafy vegetables is good for your health but many of us overlook other fruits and vegetables that provide significant ocular nutrition.  Look to other colors in addition to green to find sources of nutrients and antioxidants needed for the proper function of retinal tissue.  For example, two major naturally occurring carotenoids in the retina are lutein and zeaxanthin.  Both are common supplements in over the counter vitamins.  One food source with the highest amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin is corn.  Kiwi, red seedless grapes, zucchini squash, and pumpkin are other top contributors for lutein.  Orange peppers and oranges are sources of zeaxanthin.  Perhaps somewhat surprising, carrots are not as good a source of lutein or zeaxanthin when compared to the above sources.  So keep eating away at the kale, spinach, and collard greens, but don’t forget to add the colors.

Vit Patel, MD

UVA vs. UVB

 The sunlight that reaches us is made up of two types of harmful rays: long wave ultraviolet (UVA) and short wave ultraviolet (UVB).  UVA rays are basically responsible for aging of the skin, and UVB rays mainly produce sunburn.  Both can be harmful to the eyes and eyelids.  

Sunglasses are a must if you spend significant time outdoorsand not just on sunny days.  Overcast days have just as harmful UV rays.   

Most people believe that the darkness of the lens is what protects their eyes. The degree of darkness has no effect on UV rays. For adequate protection, look for sunglasses that indicate they block 100 percent of the sun's UV rays.  This includes those labeled as "UV 400," which blocks all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. (This covers all of UVA and UVB rays.)  Wrap-around styles offer the most protection, preventing rays from entering around the frame. 

Sunglasses don't have to be expensive, most over the counter sunglasses are under $20 and many provide the necessary UVA/UVB protection. 

Rebecca Mueller, O.D.

Summer Eye Protection

1. Wear sunglasses when outdoors; eyes can get sunburned too.  Burned corneas can cause mild to severe pain, and like sunburned skin, the reaction may be delayed, presenting hours after sun exposure.  Too much ultraviolet light may also accelerate the formation of cataracts. 

2. Wear safety goggles when needed.  Summer is the time for yard work, home projects, and sports... all of which can put eyes at a greater risk of injuries and foreign bodies. 

3. Remove contact lenses before swimming anywhere: pools, oceans, or lakes.  Not only will they get washed away, but the water harbors microbes with could breed infections if they become trapped under the contact lens.   

4. Firework injuries, bug bites near the eyes, poison ivy near the eyes... whatever summer brings, don't hesitate to seek treatment from your eye care professional when needed.

Rebecca Mueller, O.D.

UV Blocking Contact Lenses

As you know, ultraviolet (UV) exposure can have detrimental effects on the eyes. Chronic UV exposure has been associated with eyelid cancer, pinguecula, pterygium, cataracts, and macular degeneration.  Many people are unaware that there are UV blocking contact lenses available.  These lenses have been on the market for over ten years.  Sometimes sunglasses fail to provide adequate protection because UV light is reflected and can come in from above and below the sunglasses, as well as the sides.  Contact lens wearers can increase their level of UV protection by wearing UV blocking contacts and sunglasses, therefore the entire eye and skin around it is protected.  UV blocking contacts are a great option for young patients who are going to be wearing lenses for many years.  UV blocking contacts are available as daily, weekly, and monthly lenses.   

Jennine Lutz, O.D.

Common Causes and Treatment for Dark Circle

Some common reasons why dark circles appear under the eye are the following:

•    The skin under the eye is very thin and as we age it becomes thinner
    causing the blood vessels below the skin to be more apparent.
•    Genetics-Dark circles under the eyes can be inherited. They are more
    noticeable in people with deep set eyes or fair skin.
•    Allergies- Dark circles can be seen in people who are allergic
    to pollen, dust, pet dander, etc.  This occurs because people
    often rub their itchy eyes.  This is also known as allergic shiners.
•    Lack of sleep and high levels of stress.

Ways to improve or decrease dark circles:

•    Get plenty of rest.
•    Drink lots of water.
•    Use cool compresses on the eyes.
•    Treat your allergic eyes with allergy drops.
•    Decrease salt intake.
•    Wear sun block with at least an SPF of 30 around the eyes.  

Jennine Lutz, O.D.