Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision
loss worldwide, affecting nearly 60 million people. With healthy lifestyle
choices it may be possible to minimize the risk of vision loss from glaucoma. Certain
habits may help minimize the risk of losing vision, beyond drugs, lasers and
surgery.
· Exercise Regularly. A recent study showed that people who engaged in moderate to vigorous
physical activity appear to have a 73 percent lower risk of developing
glaucoma. This is because blood flow and pressure inside the eye may change
with exercise, which may affect glaucoma risk.
· Diet. Eat a diet rich in fruits and
vegetables, especially green, leafy ones. One study showed that people who ate more leafy vegetables have a 20
to 30 percent lower risk of developing glaucoma. Why? Nitrates in green
vegetables can be converted to nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and
help regulate pressure inside the eye.
· Drink Coffee-Better yet, Drink Tea Instead of
Coffee. A study published last month showed that people who consumed at
least one cup of hot tea daily had 74 percent decreased odds of having glaucoma
compared with those who did not consume hot tea. A little coffee is fine, but
excessive caffeine intake is not ideal.
· Consider Taking a Magnesium Supplement. Studies suggest that an adequate intake of dietary
magnesium may be beneficial for patients with glaucoma. Why? Magnesium improves circulation
and seems to have a beneficial effect on glaucoma patients’
vision.
· Brush, Floss & Visit the Dentist Regularly. A recent study showed that tooth loss may be linked to increased glaucoma
risk. This is because periodontal disease may trigger an inflammatory response
that can contribute to glaucoma.
· Don’t smoke. Studies indicate that smoking cigarettes increases
the risk of glaucoma, and has an overall negative impact on eye health.
· Maintain a healthy body weight. Studies show that people with a higher body mass
index (BMI) are at increased risk for diabetes, and having diabetes puts people
at risk of glaucoma. Having a too low BMI is also associated with increased
glaucoma risk.
· Avoid Inverted Postures in Yoga. Studies show head-down positions can increase eye
pressure and are not recommended for glaucoma patients. There are plenty of yoga
exercises that don’t have this effect
· Avoid neckties. Researchers say that a too-tight necktie may increase
the risk of glaucoma by increasing blood pressure inside
the eyes.
Get screened regularly for glaucoma, especially
if you have a family history of the condition. Researchers have recently identified certain genes
that increase the risk of glaucoma. Those at higher risk of glaucoma include people of African descent, people
with diabetes, and those with a family history of glaucoma.
If you or someone you know is over 40, or has other
glaucoma risk factors please schedule a glaucoma eye exam at Alabama Eye &
Cataract Center in Birmingham at 205-930-0930, visit Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or Facebook.
Alabama Eye & Cataract Center is a leading eye care center in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine eye doctors and eye specialists.
