Glaucoma is a serious ocular problem that can develop as early as age 35. It occurs when too much fluid builds up in the eye, creating pressure on the optic nerve. This results in nerve damage that can drastically affect vision and even lead to blindness. Here are several preventive measures that can help reduce your risk of this condition.

How to Lower Glaucoma Risk

1. Wear Eye Protection

Eye injuries can cause optic nerve damage or affect how the ocular organs drain fluid. For this reason, you should always wear protective goggles when playing sports or working in environments where sharp objects could damage your eyes, like carpentry. Find goggles that cover the fronts and sides of the visual organs. If you wear glasses, ensure the protective items fit over them. You could also ask an eye doctor about prescription goggles.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Both high blood sugar levels and blood pressure can contribute to glaucoma. The former can damage vessels in the eyes, forming abnormal new ones. On the other hand, the latter issue results in increased eye pressure that could impact the optic nerve.

Lower your risk of these problems by eating healthily. Dark leafy greens, fruits like oranges and mangoes, almonds, and eggs contain essential minerals that boost eye health, including vitamin C and lutein.

3. Exercise

The right amount of exercise can also keep weight off and lower eye pressure, but know your limitations. Too much aggressive activity can negatively affect your body. In fact, it can increase pressure around your eyes instead. Therefore, perform moderate exercises five times a week. Try brisk walking for 30 minutes or a casual bike ride around the park.

Regular visits to an optometrist will also help prevent glaucoma or catch the condition early. Comprehensive Eye Care welcomes patients of all ages from Washington, MO, and provides a wide range of eye care services. From treating glaucoma to providing surgery or corrective lenses, they’ll ensure you have everything needed to see clearly. They’ve also participated in clinical trials for over 20 years, which you can learn more about by visiting their website. To schedule an eye exam, call (636) 390-3999.