EYE HEALTH UNCOVERED

When was the last time you thought about your eye health? For many of us, vision care takes a backseat — until something goes wrong. But as ophthalmologist Dr. Lauren Bierman, M.D. with Associated Eye Surgeons in Massachusetts reveals, our eyes aren’t just windows to the world; they’re mirrors reflecting our overall health. From surprising links between high blood pressure and sudden vision loss to cutting-edge treatments for cataracts and macular degeneration, Dr. Bierman breaks down what you need to know to protect your sight at every age. Whether you’re a screen-weary professional, a parent worried about kids’ device use, or someone navigating age-related changes, these insights could change how you see your future — literally.

Q: How often should healthy adults get an eye exam?

A: Every two to three years is reasonable for someone with no medical history. But if you have conditions like diabetes or hypertension — even if your vision seems fine — get an annual exam. I’ve diagnosed diabetes in patients who had no idea they were sick, just based on what I saw in their eyes. The eye really is a window into the body.

Q: Are there lifestyle habits that help protect vision?

A: Absolutely. The best way to care for your eyes is to care for your body. Don’t smoke — it increases the risk for virtually every eye disease: macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, you name it. Exercise and a healthy diet help too. Exercise and eating right can help prevent diabetes, which affects vision and that is what I see all day long. The Mediterranean diet — rich in fish, olive oil, and low in saturated fat — has shown some benefits for eye health, especially for conditions like macular degeneration. And yes, sunglasses help too.

Q: What about screen time?

A: For adults, the main issue is dry eye and fatigue. You blink less when staring at a screen. In children, screen time has been linked to an increase in nearsightedness. It’s not just screens — even lots of reading can contribute if kids aren't also spending time outside. Our world is more near these days than looking far.

Q: What symptoms should never be ignored?

A: Sudden vision loss, flashes, floaters, or transient vision changes. These could signal retinal detachment or problems with blood supply to the eye. Retina damage is irreversible, so early care is critical. The retina is like brain tissue — once it's damaged, we can’t get it back. I often wish people came to me a month earlier.

Q: What are some advances in cataract surgery?

A: New lens implants are constantly evolving. Multifocal lenses now allow some people to ditch glasses entirely. But it’s not one-size-fits-all — your daily activities should guide lens choice. Whether you’re knitting or at the golf course, your ophthalmologist should tailor the solution to your lifestyle.

Q: Should people delay cataract surgery for better tech?

A: Sometimes! Technology evolves fast — new implants and techniques emerge yearly. If vision is manageable, waiting might offer better options.

Q: Which emerging therapies for macular degeneration or glaucoma look most promising—and how soon might they be widely available?

A: This is a very active field. For macular degeneration, there's work on gene therapy and sustained drug delivery systems that could replace monthly eye injections. For glaucoma, we’ve moved from invasive surgeries to tiny implants that improve fluid drainage. Across the board, technology is improving outcomes and reducing burdens.

Q: How do you know if you’re a candidate for LASIK?

A: You need stable vision therefore you need to be at least 18 years old. Corneal thickness is a major factor — it’s case-by-case — some with severe astigmatism or thin corneas may not qualify.

Q: For families with hereditary eye disorders, what role does genetic testing or counseling play in your practice?

A: Some hereditary eye diseases benefit from genetic testing, especially if they could affect other parts of the body and have systemic implications. Academic centers usually handle that testing, but I’ll refer patients if needed and monitor their eye-related symptoms.

Q: What should people look for in an eye doctor?

A: Find a specialist — we’re all sub-specialized now. Whether you go to a large practice or a smaller one, it’s about the relationship. Ask if your doctor will be following up personally, what support looks like, and whether it feels like a good fit for you.

Q: What’s your biggest takeaway for patients?

A: People are deeply afraid of losing their vision — it’s tied to independence and quality of life. The real challenge is connecting everyday health choices with long-term vision outcomes. People would rather lose a limb than lose their sight — and that says everything.

Your vision is priceless — and often, the first warning signs of bigger health issues appear in your eyes. From lifestyle tweaks to cutting-edge treatments, Dr. Bierman’s insights remind us that proactive care today can safeguard your sight tomorrow. Schedule that eye exam, rethink those daily habits, and see the difference a little awareness can make.