I have astigmatism, not to be confused with stigmata, as the pesky "Autocorrect" function on my phone has tried to imply in the past. My astigmatism requires me to wear glasses whenever I am reading, using the computer, driving and basically doing anything that requires the world not to be slightly blurred. But I love my glasses and they are probably my favorite accessory.

What about contacts? Well my eyeballs have refused to believe that something can go directly on them, which makes the application of eye drops a two person job. Therefore, placing tiny plastic hats on my corneas has not seemed feasible. Two-thirds of contact lens wearers are female and the average age of contact lens wearers worldwide is 31 years old. Now being a lady that is 31+1, it seems an ideal moment to become a brave (part time) contact lens wearer.

I am wearing my glasses as I type this, and many of you will probably be wearing your glasses or contact lenses while reading this. Vision Problems in the US features an interactive map of the United States that allows you to see the vision problem prevalence in each state. There is also an Advanced Search option for more detailed search results.

Vision health and your everyday routine

• Food! The New York State Dept of Health Vision and Eye Health has a helpful guide to fruits and veggies that promote good eye health. Per the American Optometric Association, studies have shown that lutein and zeaxanthin reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases. Lutein and zeaxanthin are important nutrients found in green leafy vegetables, as well as other foods: Eggs, kale, spinach, turnip greens, collard greens, romaine lettuce, broccoli, zucchini, corn, garden peas and Brussels sprouts. And yes, carrots can be found among the list of foods rich in antioxidants for eye health. Carrots are a source of Vitamin A and Beta Carotene.
• The interwebs! It is a given that we all spend hours looking at adorable pictures of dogs and cats online. Per the American Optometric Association page on Computer Vision Syndrome to prevent eye strain, try to rest your eyes when using the computer for long periods of time. Rest your eyes for 15 minutes after two hours of continuous computer use. Also, for every 20 minutes of computer viewing, look into the distance for 20 seconds to allow your eyes a chance to refocus.
• Makeup! Yes, enjoy your liquid eyeliner but be as safe as possible and check out the FDA’s Eye Cosmetic Safety site.

Find help

Read

• Eyewear: A Visual History 1491-Today
• Fashion Spectacles, Spectacular Fashion: Eyewear Styles and Shapes From Vintage to 2020
• Cult Eyewear: The World's Enduring Classics
• Spectacles & Sunglasses
• The Eye: A Very Short Introduction
• The Eye Care Revolution

Contact lens and eye glass wearers, please share in the comments your love for either or both. Also, please feel free to assure me that a contact lens fitting is nothing like the Ludovico technique scene from A Clockwork Orange.