Glaucoma develops when the optic nerve becomes damaged. As this nerve gradually deteriorates, blind spots develop in your vision. For reasons that doctors don't fully understand, this nerve damage is usually related to increased pressure in the eye.
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause vision loss and blindness by damaging a nerve in the back of your eye called the optic nerve.
Maintaining a healthy weight, controlling your blood pressure, being physically active, and avoiding smoking will help you avoid vision loss from glaucoma. These healthy behaviors will also help prevent type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions.
Here's the dish: Fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and halibut contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which research suggests may help reduce the risk of developing eye disease later in life. Additionally, eating more omega-3s has been shown to decrease glaucoma-related pressure in the eye.
Research has shown that regular exercise may lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma patients. It does not have to be rigorous exercise to have a beneficial effect, but rather a brisk walk every other day for 20 to 30 minutes.
While treatment for glaucoma cannot restore vision if it has already been lost, it can preserve remaining sight. Typically, many forms of glaucoma are first treated with daily eye drops or a laser procedure.
High trans fats have been proven to cause damage to the optic nerve. Time to cut out fried foods, baked goods and any product with an ingredient list that includes hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils. Saturated foods that include red meat, beef, lard, shortening and oils can also worsen glaucoma.
The most common treatment for glaucoma is prescription eye drops. They work by lowering the pressure in your eye and preventing damage to your optic nerve. These eye drops won't cure glaucoma or reverse vision loss, but they can keep glaucoma from getting worse.
Some of the newer medications on the market are eye drops called VYZULTA (latanoprostene bunod ophthalmic solution) and Rhopressa (netarsudil ophthalmic solution). VYZULTA is a modification of a current class of medications currently used to treat glaucoma – the prostaglandin analogs.
Aging likely contributes to the vulnerability of the optic nerve over time, such that the aged optic nerve is less able to withstand various affronts, such as elevated eye pressure. In addition, the pathway by which eye fluid flows out of the eye also likely begins to weaken over time.
Age. The major risk factor of primary open-angle glaucoma is age. As we get older, the drainage system no longer functions as well, and the eye pressure can gradually increase.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine).
Edward Asregadoo, MD, theorized that B1-deficient patients might be more prone to glaucoma. He noted that low levels of vitamin B1 are associated with increased cortisol, which in turn increases IOP. A study he published did find lower serum thiamine in glaucoma patients.
While people living with glaucoma may have to make adjustments, you don't have to limit your life because of glaucoma. Most people can live an active and fulfilling life. However, living with glaucoma may require increased visits to your eye care team and adherence to medications.
Any type of activity that positions your head lower than your heart for prolonged periods of time should be avoided, as it could lead to a spike in intraocular pressure. This includes inverted yoga positions (and headstands) or using inversion tables.
Medications to treat glaucoma
Many types of prescription eye drops can treat glaucoma. Some decrease fluids and increase drainage to improve eye pressure. Because glaucoma is a lifelong condition, you may need to use daily eye drops for life.
Aerobic exercise is a great option for staying healthy while managing your glaucoma. This type of exercise includes activities like walking, swimming, biking, or working out with stationary machines like treadmills. These exercise types can increase blood circulation, which benefits the heart and brain.
Roll your eyes in a circular motion clockwise ten times and then reverse to counter clockwise for another ten rolls. Massage your temples and forehead in small, circular motions for about 30 seconds. Do not apply a lot of pressure to your eye as this could cause damage.
Many people assume that 'using your eyes' can worsen your glaucoma. Reading, watching TV or using your phone or computer does not have any impact on your glaucoma.
Peaches and Oranges
According to a NIH study, women consuming fresh peaches and oranges in excess of two servings per week reduced their odds of developing glaucoma. Orange consumption led to 82% reduction in glaucoma development, while peaches served to cut this risk by 70% percent.
Oranges and Peaches
Oranges are a citrus fruit that contains Vitamin C essential for healthy eyesight. Orange and peaches consumption can reduce the risk of glaucoma by 82% and 70% respectively. Peaches have Vitamin A and oranges are rich in Vitamin C. Both are important vitamins to help with glaucoma.