Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition that can lead to permanent blindness. The risk increases with age, and it affects millions of people worldwide.

While there is no known cure for glaucoma, there are several ways to help lower the risk of developing it. Here are some of the most powerful ways to cut glaucoma risk in half.

1. Get Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are essential for detecting early signs of glaucoma. You should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every year if you are over the age of 40 and have a family history of glaucoma.

If you are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, your eye doctor may recommend more frequent check-ups.

2. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is great for overall health and can help reduce the risk of many health conditions, including glaucoma. Research suggests that regular exercise can lower intraocular pressure, which is a key risk factor for developing glaucoma.

Exercise also improves blood flow to the eyes and helps maintain healthy optic nerve function.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of many chronic health conditions, including glaucoma. Focus on eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Some studies suggest that certain nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, and E, may help protect against glaucoma.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for many health conditions, including glaucoma. Smoking can cause damage to the optic nerve and increase the risk of developing glaucoma.

If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and eye health.

5. Protect Your Eyes

Protecting your eyes from injury and harmful UV rays can also help reduce the risk of glaucoma. Wear protective eyewear when playing sports or working with power tools. Wear sunglasses that block out 100% of UVA and UVB rays when outdoors.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can increase intraocular pressure.

6. Manage Medical Conditions

Medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, can increase the risk of glaucoma. If you have a medical condition, work closely with your doctor to manage it effectively.

This can help lower the risk of developing glaucoma and other complications.

7. Limit Caffeine Intake

Caffeine can increase intraocular pressure, which is a key risk factor for glaucoma. If you are at risk of developing glaucoma, consider reducing your caffeine intake. This can help lower intraocular pressure and reduce the risk of developing glaucoma.

8. Practice Stress Management

Stress can increase intraocular pressure, which is a key risk factor for glaucoma. Practicing stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, can help reduce stress and lower intraocular pressure.

9. Take Prescribed Medications

If you are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, your doctor may prescribe medications to lower intraocular pressure. It is important to take all prescribed medications as directed and to report any side effects to your doctor.

Follow-up appointments are critical to monitor the effectiveness of the medications and to adjust the dosage as needed.

10. Learn About Your Family History

If you have a family history of glaucoma, you may be at a higher risk of developing it. Talk to your family members about their eye health history and share this information with your eye doctor.

This can help your doctor determine your risk level and monitor your eye health more closely.