Glaucoma is a group of progressive optic neuropathies that damage the eye’s optic nerve which can result in vision loss and blindness. Visual problems are often a late symptom of glaucoma when the disease is already very advanced. However, with early detection and treatment, you can protect your eyesight from deteriorating. Glaucoma can occur in any population, however, those most at risk include people who
- are aged 40 and above
- have diabetes
- have a family history of glaucoma
- have eye injuries
Here is a useful read on the risk factors for glaucoma.
Treating patients with glaucoma – glaucoma treatment in Kolkata
The damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible but with regular eye exams and the right treatment, you can reduce the risk of glaucoma worsening at a rapid rate over time. Once detected, there are different types of treatment options for glaucoma patients. In addition to prescription eye drops, medication, laser treatment and surgery, there are several lifestyle factors that can help you manage the symptoms.
What should glaucoma patients avoid?
1. Avoid activities that increase eye pressure:
It is recommended for patients with glaucoma to have an active lifestyle. However exercises such as bungee jumping or inverted yoga poses that put the head below the heart may cause an increase in the intraocular pressure- hence they should be avoided. You can do brisk walking and regular exercise at a moderate pace – as they can lower eye pressure. If you lift heavy weights, ask a qualified trainer to show you how to breathe properly during the exercise.
Note: A study found that when glaucoma patients performed head-down yoga poses, the IOP rose within one minute of doing each pose.
2. Avoid unhealthy foods:
The following food items can raise intraocular pressure and can damage the optic nerve – hence, it is important for you to reduce their consumption:
- Trans-fats raise your “bad” cholesterol and also lower your “good” cholesterol. A diet laden with trans fats can damage blood vessels which can harm the optic nerve. Avoid food items high in trans-fats such as cakes, cookies, biscuits, rolls, french fries, and fried chicken.
- Saturated fats such as butter, cheese, coconut oil, biscuits, sausages, bacon, and fatty cuts of meat cause the Body Mass Index (BMI) to increase. A high BMI is associated with high intraocular.
Note: Instead of food items high on trans-fats and saturated fats, choose foods rich in complex carbohydrates such as oats, legumes, brown rice, whole grain pasta, broccoli, leafy greens, apples and berries. They take longer to digest and cause the blood sugar levels to rise slowly which is important because fluctuations in blood sugar levels in those with glaucoma can cause IOP to increase.
3. Avoid sleeping with your eye against the pillow
If you are suffering from glaucoma, sleep in the right position. Do not sleep in a position where your eyes are against the pillow or your arms.
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At Disha Eye Hospitals, our eye doctors are here to guide you and help you maintain good vision and healthy eyes. To know more about glaucoma treatment in Kolkata and other branches, visit here