Glaucoma occurs when fluids in your eyes are unable to drain properly, increasing the pressure inside your eyes. Eventually, this increased pressure leads to optic nerve compression, compromising your vision. Without treatment, glaucoma can cause irreversible vision loss.
The good news is you can take steps to stop glaucoma before it even begins. Opti-Care, your trusted provider of dry eye treatments and other eye-care services, shares some steps you can take to lower your risk of developing this condition.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise encourages proper blood flow to your eyes and other organs. This can help regulate the pressure inside your eyes, reducing your risk of developing glaucoma. In fact, research has shown that people who engage in moderate to strenuous physical activities regularly are roughly 73% less likely to develop glaucoma than those who do not.
Eat Eye-Friendly Foods
Your eye doctor recommends eating kale and other dark, leafy greens. These foods are rich in eye-friendly nutrients that help improve blood circulation and keep your eye pressure at healthy levels.
Avoid Wearing Neckties and Doing Inverted Yoga Positions
A necktie tied too tightly may increase the pressure inside your eyes, making you more likely to develop glaucoma. This is also why we discourage doing inverted yoga positions.
Choose Tea Over Coffee
If you need a caffeine fix, choose a cup of tea instead of your usual coffee. Tea is a great source of antioxidants and flavonoids, which help protect your eyes’ structural integrity, reducing your risk of acquiring glaucoma.
Undergo Regular Eye Exams
Eye exams not only help us determine if you need eyeglasses, but they also allow us to detect glaucoma and other sight-threatening conditions early. Make it a habit to see your optometrist regularly, especially if glaucoma runs in your family or you have risk factors for this disease.
For more tips on lowering your glaucoma risk, call us at (410) 600-3173. We serve Westminster and nearby MD areas.