Glaucoma is a condition that affects the nerves in the eye so much that they become damaged. Ultimately, this leads to blindness. Glaucoma usually gets worse with time. That’s why you need to know how to combat it to avoid going blind. It is also a hereditary eye condition, so if you have such a history, you should take preventive measures early enough. It is vital to explain how glaucoma affects the eye. It has something to do with the upsurge of pressure within the eye.
This only means that, with such increased pressure, the blood vessels and nerves of the eye will be stressed and eventually damaged. No wonder glaucoma leads to blindness in a few years because the optic nerves get damaged, and there will be no link between the eye and the brain. Without this, no image will be sent to the brain, and nothing will be seen.
The pressure built up within the eye is also known as intraocular pressure, which is the bone of contention anytime the topic of glaucoma surfaces.
Coming down with glaucoma isn’t the end of life, and it is not a sentence to permanent eye blindness. Yet, glaucoma has no cure, but it can be prevented and treated.
The Different Types of Glaucoma
- Open-angle glaucoma
- Angle-closure glaucoma
- Secondary glaucoma
- Pigmentary glaucoma
- Normal-tension glaucoma
The main sign of open-angle glaucoma is often losing side or peripheral vision. For angle-closure glaucoma, the symptoms come on faster and are easily detected. Such symptoms include:
- Vision loss
- Stomach upset or vomiting
- Seeing halos around lights
- Eye pain
- Redness in the eye
The importance of early diagnosis cannot be overemphasized. The process of diagnosis isn’t tricky. It is a fast and painless procedure. Your optic nerves are examined after your pupils are made to dilate. The optician will take photographs of your eye to examine your optic nerves properly. Also, your eye pressure will be checked through tonometry.
And after diagnosis, following through with a suitable treatment plan should be your ultimate goal. We have done the hard work for you by coming up with seven proven tips to get relief from glaucoma.
Proven Glaucoma Treatment Methods
Take Your Medications
If you have glaucoma, you can’t afford to self-medicate (without first getting a proper diagnosis and treatment plan from a certified optician). Once you’ve filled an adequate prescription, ensure you take your medicine religiously. This is a fundamental step to getting your eye pressure under control.
Shut Down Caffeine Intake
If you’re at risk of having glaucoma or already have it, you’ll want to stay away from caffeine. You’ll have to say goodbye to soda, tea, and coffee. That’s because excessive caffeine intake can increase your eye pressure. You will be amazed at how just one cup of coffee can raise your eye pressure for up to 90 minutes.
No Smoking
Nicotine is the chief ingredient in cigarettes, and it increases both blood pressure and inflammation of the eyes. If you have glaucoma, you have to do away with cigarettes, as they may also increase your risk of developing cataracts and diabetes. You should be aware that cataracts and diabetes are risk factors for glaucoma. So overall, cigarettes will do you more harm than good if you have glaucoma.
Regular Exercise
Keeping your body in regular movement through regular exercise and gymnastics can help reduce eye pressure. With your eye pressure reduced, the impending risks associated with glaucoma also decrease. It is a cheap and fast way to get your eye pressure reduced. However, you should talk to your doctor about it because some activities can cause an increase in eye pressure in the long run.
Healthy Feeding
The relevance of eating a balanced diet also has a role in helping you get relief from glaucoma. You want to eat food that contains a high level of antioxidants. Your goal should be to eat well-nourished food, like leafy greens, and Omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish.
Take Supplements For Glaucoma
Cannabidiol (CBD), THC, and other cannabinoids, essential components of CBD oil, have been reported to help lower eye pressure. Massaging CBD oil is an effective way to treat glaucoma. The added advantage is that your blood pressure will also be lowered. So, it’s a win-win situation if you have raised blood and eye pressure.
Fluid Ingestion
Don’t reduce your intake of drinks. However, it is advisable to spread your beverages throughout the day. Drinking too much at a time can cause severe eye strain. Sip your drinks in small amounts, as too much fluid intake can increase your eye pressure.
Conclusion
The treatment of glaucoma has a lot to do with reducing eye pressure. You have been given seven tips to help you treat glaucoma. Don’t neglect the essential input of your optician. Seek counsel and get your eyes protected. Above all, don’t forget to take CBD gummies; they help a lot.