Glaucoma Boulder

Tips for Reducing the Risk of Developing Glaucoma

Although no disease is 100 percent preventable, people can do a great deal to lower their risk of developing and managing certain conditions if they take precautions. For instance, glaucoma is something that is largely determined by genetics, but many people can successfully delay or prevent the onset of this disease by following specific dietary guidelines. Avoidance of inflammatory foods is highly recommended for those who are at risk of developing glaucoma Boulder. Examples of inflammatory foods include diary, pork, wheat, and sugar. Lowering insulin levels also helps prevent the onset of glaucoma, so sugary foods as well as those high in complex carbohydrates should be avoided. A diet rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, and fatty omega 3 acids may be instrumental in helping prevent the onset of glaucoma.

Glaucoma is caused by internal pressure on the eyes rather than a problem with the eyes themselves, so it's important to do everything possible to reduce internal inflammation. Low impact exercise on a regular basis can help lower eye pressure, and activities such as walking, biking, and swimming will also help increase overall general health levels. Elevated eye pressure can also be at least partially alleviated by doing yoga and other activities designed to reduce stress. Evidence also exists that supplements designed to promote optimal eye healthy may help reduce glaucoma symptoms in those who suffer from the disease. 

Unfortunately, glaucoma often sneaks up on people because they mistake the symptoms for ordinary signs of aging. Glaucoma is also a gradually progressive condition that gives few warning signs until serious damage has occurred.

To complicate matters even further, there are two separate types of glaucoma that have completely different symptoms. The first type, primary open-angle glaucoma is the less serious of the two but nonetheless should be taken seriously. Gradual loss of peripheral vision in both eyes is the primary symptom of this type of glaucoma, and advanced stages will result in tunnel vision.

The second type of glaucoma is called angle-closure glaucoma and has more serious and pronounced symptoms than primary open-angle glaucoma. Sharp pains in the eye area accompanied by nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, redness of the eyes, and a halo effect around visually perceived objects are all signs that angle-closure glaucoma may be a problem. Those who experience any or all of these symptoms should not hesitate to contact their eye care professional.