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Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, but there are various treatments and lifestyle changes that may help. The health of this nerve is necessary for good vision, so damage to it may cause vision loss. Since this condition develops slowly and may not have early warning signs, it can go undetected. Here are lifestyle changes and treatments to manage glaucoma:
Dietary Changes
Making thoughtful dietary choices can play a supportive role in managing eye health. Try incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts, as they promote overall eye health, and utilize these other options:
- Fruits and vegetables: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can support your overall eye health.
- Antioxidants: Foods high in antioxidants may promote eye well-being.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish like salmon, these can also be beneficial.
Moderate Exercise
Engaging in regular, moderate exercise might help manage eye pressure. Activities like walking or swimming are beneficial, yet some forms of exercise should be avoided. You should discuss your exercise plans with your doctor, especially if you have other health conditions. Certain yoga poses with head-down positions might increase intraocular pressure.
Prescription Eye Drops
Your ophthalmologist may prescribe medicated eye drops to manage your condition. These drops work by either decreasing the amount of fluid the eye produces or by improving how fluid drains from the eye. Proper application is key for the medication to be effective. Forgetting doses might affect treatment outcomes, so try to use them as directed.
Different types of eye drops are available for glaucoma management. Some increase fluid outflow from the eye, while others reduce the production of fluid in the eye. It is helpful to communicate any side effects to your doctor, and a medical provider can adjust your prescription.
Managing a regimen of eye drops requires consistency. Using the drops at the same time each day helps maintain stable eye pressure. Some people may find it useful to set reminders on their phone, and others may keep their drops in a visible place. If you use more than one type of eye drop, wait five minutes between applications.
Laser-assisted Therapy
Laser therapy presents another treatment option for certain types of glaucoma. This procedure is performed in an office setting. It uses a focused beam of light to improve the eye’s drainage system. A standard procedure targets specific cells to enhance fluid drainage.
The procedure itself is relatively quick. Your eye will be numbed with drops before the laser is used, and the treatment typically takes just a few minutes. You may feel a brief sensation of light, but the process is generally not painful. After the therapy, your doctor will check your eye pressure. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your progress.
Surgical Options
When other treatments are not sufficient, surgery may be an option. Your doctor will discuss which procedure is appropriate for your specific situation, and glaucoma drainage devices are another possibility. These small devices are implanted in the eye to help drain fluid. Different surgical options might include:
- Trabeculectomy
- Glaucoma drainage devices
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
Get Checked for Glaucoma
Regular eye exams are a proactive way to monitor your eye health, and a doctor can detect signs of glaucoma during a comprehensive dilated eye exam before you notice any symptoms. Early detection allows for a wider range of management strategies. If you are concerned about your risk for glaucoma, schedule an appointment with an eye care professional today.
