OPHTHALMOLOGY

Q:I was diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma a few years ago that is currently being managed with eye drops. Is there anything else I can do on my own to help minimize my risk of losing vision from glaucoma? A: Perhaps one of the most difficult parts of having glaucoma is feeling relatively powerless especially since it is a chronic condition that requires lifelong treatment. People today are increasingly interested in how lifestyle choices effect health. Beyond drops and surgery, several recent studies suggest that lifestyle choices can influence eye pressure which is a major risk factor for glaucoma.

First and foremost, the care of an eye doctor for glaucoma management is vital and essential. The lifestyle suggestions listed here do not replace current or future medical treatment. Before adopting any of these suggestions, check with your eye doctor and primary care physician(s) to make sure there are no contraindications or concerns about whether specific changes may be appropriate for you.

Exercise: Aerobic exercise helps lower eye pressure, i.e., brisk walking, low-impact aerobics class, swimming, water aerobics, bicycling outdoors or on a stationary bike, and treadmill walking. Exercising regularly can help improve and maintain cardiovascular health which can impact the health of your eye. Avoid head-down position activities especially if you are doing yoga since this position can cause a significant increase in intraocular pressure.

Diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, especially green, leafy types. Nitrates in green vegetables can be converted to nitric oxide which can improve blood flow to help regulate pressure inside the eye. Also helpful are natural ingredients, lean protein items, and low intake of fat.

Stop smoking. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine intake.

Other considerations that may cause raised IOP: tight neckties, playing high-resistance wind instruments such as trumpet or oboe, and antihypertensive medications that can lower blood pressure at bedtime. Adopting healthy lifestyle choices is good for both the body and the eyes and can empower you to live in a way that will have the greatest positive impact on your glaucoma management.