Did you know that more than 3 million Americans are living with glaucoma?
Early symptoms of glaucoma can be overlooked, so it’s important to be aware of the dangers this condition can cause if left untreated. Once glaucoma has set in, there is no going back, so prevention is key to not endangering your eyesight.
Read on to find out about preventing glaucoma in this simple guide.
1. Have Regular Eye Exams
Having regular eye health exams is an excellent way to prevent glaucoma. At an eye exam, your eye doctor can monitor the overall health of your eyes as well as measure your eye pressure. Glaucoma can often be detected through your eye pressure, and regular check-ups can help prevent any vision damage early in the development of the disease.
It is also important to discuss any risk factors that you may have with your eye doctor, such as a family history of glaucoma, age, higher blood pressure, diabetes, or if you have suffered a previous eye injury. Learn about types of glaucoma and take the necessary steps to protect your vision.
2. Lower Your Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, taking medications or making lifestyle changes to reduce it may prevent glaucoma or slow its progression. This can include monitoring your blood pressure, being active, reducing stress levels, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Exercise can also help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of glaucoma. Try yoga, tai chi, or other gentle physical activity and incorporate relaxation practices like meditation into your daily life.
3. Keep a Healthy and Balanced Diet
Eating foods like fresh leafy greens, lean protein, and omega-3-rich sources like fatty fish can help prevent vision problems. Eating foods rich in antioxidants like blueberries, nuts, and beans can help protect the eyes from damage. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables can help improve blood flow in the eyes, thus reducing intraocular pressure.
Hydrating with adequate amounts of water can also help prevent glaucoma. Lastly, it is important to take vitamins and supplements important to maintaining proper eye health, like Vitamin A and Vitamin B complex, as well as include natural sources of lutein, zeaxanthin, and carotenoids in your diet to benefit your eyes.
4. Regularly Check Your Ears, Nose, and Throat
One tip for preventing glaucoma is to regularly check your ears, nose, and throat. If a person regularly checks their ears, nose, and throat, they can look out for any possible signs of glaucoma. This can include a loss or decrease in hearing, a change in the texture of the eyes, changes in the eyes’ appearance, or issues with the sinuses.
When these signs have been noted, it is important to visit an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam to properly diagnose and treat the condition. Regular check-ups with a doctor can help to catch any changes early in the case of glaucoma, which can help to prevent any further damage to the eyes.
Take Action And Have The Best Chance of Preventing Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye condition that can lead to blindness if left untreated. Taking these steps in preventing glaucoma to the heart can help you reduce your risk of developing glaucoma and keep your eyes healthy.
Keep an eye on your vision, be aware of your family health history, and make regular visits to your optometrist for what could potentially be a sight-saving examination. Stay proactive and book an appointment today!
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