How to Prevent Glaucoma in Boulder

While in the medical field new technologies are developed and implemented at a fast pace to address different types of health concerns, there is still no foolproof way to prevent glaucoma. However, regular professional eye exams are seen as the most effective preventive measure that patients can rely on to avoid considerable glaucoma damage.

How Often Should Individuals See an Eye Doctor to Prevent Glaucoma in Boulder?

Timely detection backed by an appropriate, lifelong medical treatment could help most people maintain good vision for years and even decades. The optimal frequency of checkups varies a great deal based on the patient’s age and medical history. As a general rule of thumb, regular checks should be done every 2 to 4 years before the age of 40, every 1 to 3 years between ages 40 and 54, and every 1 to 2 years until the age of 64. After reaching 65 years of age, patients should see their eye doctors on a yearly basis. Nonetheless, people with higher odds of getting glaucoma, such as individuals with a family history of this health concern, have diabetes or are of African descent should consider seeing their eye care specialist even more often (once or twice a year after turning 35).

Prompt Diagnosis and Optimal Treatment Are a Solid Foundation for Effective Glaucoma Prevention

At this point, there is no 100% efficient method to prevent glaucoma, or the severe vision loss or blindness associated with this problem; however, these unpleasant side effects can be reduced or even prevented to some extent if the disease is promptly identified in its earliest phase. In its prevalent form, the loss of vision is slow, silent and progressive. It starts by affecting peripheral vision and ends up compromising central vision.

To prevent major damages, an eye doctor may prescribe glaucoma medication, used to reduce IOP (intraocular pressure), in an attempt to avoid damage lowering the functionality of the optic nerve. An ideal personalized treatment plan could also include surgical interventions. In some cases, studies have shown that an active lifestyle may enable patients to minimize glaucoma symptoms. Moderate exercises, such as jogging or walking on a regular basis may also lower IOP, contributing to real progress already supported by the prescribed medication.

Yoga is another excellent option for those who wish to get involved in physical activities promoting a better vision and a healthier lifestyle. However, individuals shouldn’t try difficult inverted positions, as these movements may boost IOP. When in doubt, patients should discuss the particularities of their workouts and other lifestyle-related details with their eye doctors to prevent major errors that could worsen their eye health problems.

As a part of an effective prevention plan, patients who are determined to reduce the likelihood of getting cataracts should wear protective eyewear, especially when playing different sports, getting involved in DIY home improvement tasks or working in potentially hazardous environments.

Eye injuries may cause traumatic/secondary glaucoma, so every single individual exposed to this threat should invest in quality protective equipment to keep risk factors in check and see a doctor specialized in providing the best treatment for glaucoma Boulder.