Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness. It occurs when there is damage to the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting information from the eye to the brain.

There are many causes of glaucoma, including age, genetics, high intraocular pressure, and other medical conditions. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent glaucoma from developing or getting worse.

Age

As people age, their risk of developing glaucoma increases. The exact reason behind this is not known; but as we age, we do undergo changes in the blood vessels supplying the optic nerve, which could contribute to the development of glaucoma.

Regular eye exams are crucial, especially for those over 60 years of age. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can prevent permanent vision damage, so it’s recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years.

Genetics

While most cases of glaucoma are not inherited, there are certain forms that are. These genetic forms are typically more severe and occur at a younger age than non-genetic forms.

If a close relative has glaucoma, it’s essential to inform your eye doctor as it increases your risk of developing the condition. Genetic screening may be recommended for close relatives of people with certain types of inherited glaucoma.

High Intraocular Pressure

The most common cause of glaucoma is high intraocular pressure (IOP). IOP rises when fluid in the eye, called aqueous humor, does not drain properly. The increased pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to glaucoma.

Regular eye exams can detect high IOP, and when detected early, treatment can prevent vision loss. Treatment for high IOP includes prescription eye drops, laser procedures, and surgery.

Other Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can contribute to the development of glaucoma, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and hypothyroidism. When these conditions are poorly controlled, they can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.

Therefore, it’s recommended to keep medical conditions under control with regular medical care and visits to doctors. If you are diagnosed with any of these conditions, it’s recommended to notify your eye doctor.

How to Prevent Glaucoma

While it’s not always possible to prevent glaucoma, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk or keep it under control:.

1. Regular Eye Exams

Getting regular eye exams, even if you have no vision problems, is necessary for early detection of glaucoma. Eye exams will measure your intraocular pressure, check the optic nerve, and evaluate your overall eye health.

Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can prevent vision damage.

2. Exercise Regularly

Studies have shown that people who exercise regularly have a lower risk of developing glaucoma. Exercise increases blood flow to the eyes, which can help prevent pressure buildup.

Moderate exercise, like walking or jogging, three times a week, may reduce your risk of developing glaucoma.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet can help reduce the risk of developing glaucoma. Leafy greens, fish, carrots, and fruits contain essential vitamins and minerals that support eye health.

A diet that is rich in antioxidants can protect the optic nerve and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of glaucoma.

4. Manage Medical Conditions

If you have high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, or diabetes, it’s essential to manage these conditions through regular medical care and visits to the doctor.

Regular medical care can help control these conditions and prevent them from contributing to the development of glaucoma.

5. Avoid Smoking

Smoking can increase the risk of developing glaucoma. Cigarette smoking can lead to oxidative stress and damage to the optic nerve, contributing to the development of glaucoma. If you don’t smoke, avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke is also essential.

6. Protect Your Eyes

Protecting your eyes from injury can prevent glaucoma. Wearing protective eye gear when playing sports can reduce the risk of injury to the eyes that can contribute to glaucoma.

Also, be careful when doing activities that could cause eye injury, like handling heavy equipment or power tools.

Conclusion

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness. Age, genetics, high intraocular pressure, and other medical conditions are some of the most common causes of glaucoma.

While it’s not always possible to prevent glaucoma, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk, including regular eye exams, exercise, a healthy diet, managing medical conditions, avoiding smoking, and protecting your eyes from injury. Early detection, treatment and follow-ups with eye doctor are of utmost importance if you do get glaucoma diagnosis, which can help prevent permanent vision loss.