Regular Eye Doctor Appointments Keep You Healthy

The eyes are the window to…your body! When Dr. Burgett looks in your eyes, he is able to detect if there are signs of eye disease, but also certain systemic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, systemic infections and autoimmune diseases. Sometimes the eye doctor may be the first to diagnose signs of a systemic disease even if you don’t have any symptoms. For example, we can have Hypertension (high blood pressure) for years without feeling any different. Diabetes is another disease that can show signs in the eyes as the first point of diagnosis. Red, painful eyes can sometimes be the first sign of an autoimmune disease.

Your eyes can be affected by the general health and status of the rest of your body. For example, your eyes may become drier if you have not had enough water. Good nutrition and a healthy diet rich in antioxidants have a significant effect on the retinal cells in the back of your eyes. Eating daily helpings of swiss chard, collard greens, kale, bell peppers and raw spinach is always ideal, but if that’s not possible, then a daily eye vitamin like “Eye Promise” can help your eyes receive what they need for optimal health. Your eye health can often be a reflection of your overall health, making your eye exam an integral part of keeping you healthy.