How to Slow the Progression of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition that affects millions of people in the country. The progressive disease often results in partial or complete vision loss. The worst thing about glaucoma is that it does not present symptoms during the early stages. Most people only notice changes in their vision when the disease has reached an advanced stage. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to slow the progression of glaucoma.

Understanding Risk Factors for Glaucoma

Certain groups of people have a higher likelihood of getting glaucoma than others. If you fall in the category of “high-risk groups,” it is important to visit an eye doctor for a checkup. You can find out how regularly you should schedule eye exams and whether you should get diagnostic testing. 

Those at high risk include the elderly, those with family members who have glaucoma, and far-sighted people. People with diabetes, steroid users, and those with poor vision are at high risk. People of Hispanic, African, and Asian origin are more likely to get the disease.

Scheduling Regular Checkups

The best way to stop the progression of glaucoma is through regular checkups. Glaucoma has no cure, but its progression can be halted. The condition develops slowly, taking 15 years or more before early-onset glaucoma develops into blindness. 

If the eye pressure is high, the disease can develop very rapidly. Regular checkup is important for keeping the condition under control. Some eye exams check eye pressure, while others check the color and size of the optic nerve. An ophthalmologist can monitor the disease and stop its progression or slow it down.

Treating Glaucoma

The main goal of glaucoma treatment is to lower the pressure in the eyes. Depending on your overall health and the severity of the condition, the doctor may recommend different interventions. 

They include using a medication, traditional surgery, or laser surgery. Treatments do not reverse the condition, but they can preserve the remaining vision. If treatment is recommended, it is important to do it as soon as possible. 

Actions and Remedies That Slow Progression

There are actions that you can take to slow the progression of glaucoma. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help. It also helps to reduce your intake of alcohol and caffeine. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. 

Sleeping with the head elevated can reduce the pressure on the eyes. Take medications exactly as they are prescribed to avoid complications. The doctor may recommend eye drops to lower eye pressure and regulate eye fluid. Failing to use the eye drops as prescribed can make the condition worse.

Stress and Glaucoma Progression

Stress harms the body and overall health in many ways. High-stress levels can cause nerve cells to degenerate, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure. Evidence shows that stress and emotional trauma can make glaucoma worse. 

Reducing stress can slow down the progression of the condition. Do what you can to reduce stress levels in your life. Learning relaxation techniques can help. Meditation is a good way to alleviate stress. 

Early detection is the best way to prevent vision loss due to glaucoma. Schedule regular eye exams to slow disease progression.

To know how to slow down glaucoma progression, visit Blue Hills Eye Associates at our office in Braintree, Massachusetts. You can call (781) 794-2200 today to schedule an appointment.