By Heriberto Perez–Zuñiga

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS – MARCH. 19, 2025 – Eyes play a crucial role in our daily lives, helping us read, work, drive and even binge-watch our favorite shows. But how often do we take the time to care for them?

March is Save Your Vision Month, a reminder that eye health is just as important as heart health, mental well-being and other aspects of overall wellness. According to the American Optometric Association, more than 16 million Americans live with undiagnosed or untreated vision impairments.

Dr. Lorena Flores-Hernandez, an optometrist and glaucoma specialist at UT Health RGV, emphasizes that regular eye exams can make all the difference for catching problems early and maintaining sharp vision for years to come.

EARLY PREVENTION

Flores-Hernandez warns that many serious eye diseases can develop silently, becoming apparent only after permanent damage has occurred.

“Glaucoma is often called the ‘silent thief of sight’ because people don’t notice any symptoms until they start losing vision,” Flores-Hernandez said. “Many patients aren't aware that they have had glaucoma for years and it's permanently affecting the optic nerve. By then, it’s too late to reverse the damage. 

VALLEY VISION PROBLEMS

Diabetes is another significant contributor to vision loss, particularly concerning for residents of the Rio Grande Valley, which has higher diabetes rates than the national average.

Flores-Hernandez encourages patients to review their family history to identify their risk factors, such as diabetic retinopathy – a condition that causes bleeding and swelling inside the eye and is one of the leading causes of blindness in U.S. adults. Symptoms often appear only after vision has started to deteriorate.

“The best way to protect your eyes is to get ahead of these conditions before they become serious,” she said. “A simple dilated eye exam can catch early warning signs and help prevent future problems.”

LIFE-CHANGING SUPERPOWER

Beyond disease prevention, Flores-Hernandez said that clear vision can be a life-changing superpower, unlocking everyday joys that many people may not realize they are missing.

For many, an eye exam protects their vision and can transform their entire world, Flores-Hernandez said.

“I’ve had kids put on their first pair of glasses and instantly light up,” she said. “I’ve received hugs, happy tears and lots of excited ‘I can see the leaves on the trees!’ moments. It’s an incredible feeling.”

Flores-Hernandez shares that children aren’t always able to recognize when they have vision problems, which is why early eye exams are crucial. The American Optometric Association recommends a check-up before their first birthday, another before starting school and annual exams thereafter.

“Kids grow fast, and their vision changes with them,” Flores-Hernandez said. “If they can’t see the board or read their books clearly, it can hold them back in school without them even realizing it.” 

Annual eye exams can identify issues before they become major problems. Taking care of your eyes now can help ensure clear vision for years to come.

“Protecting your sight is one of the best things you can do for your future self,” she said. “You only get one pair of eyes – take care of them.”

Need an eye exam? Visit UTHealthRGV.org to schedule one today and learn more.