Can Glaucoma Be Prevented?

Glaucoma eye conditions lead to optic nerve damage and are often associated with increased pressure in the eye. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over the age of 60. However, blindness from glaucoma can often be prevented with early treatment. 

Many patients ask the knowledgeable team at Cory Bergman, MD, in Rapid City, South Dakota, and Casper, Wyoming if glaucoma can be prevented.  While there's no foolproof method to avoid glaucoma, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect your eye health.

How glaucoma affects the eye

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve which is crucial for vision. When fluid builds up in the front part of the eye, the eye pressure increases. However, glaucoma can occur with normal eye pressure as well. There are several types of glaucoma, but the two main types are open-angle and angle-closure.

Glaucoma risk factors

Knowing the risk factors is the first step in prevention. Some risk factors for glaucoma include age, a family history of the condition, certain medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and extreme nearsightedness or farsightedness. While some of these factors are beyond one's control, awareness can prompt early screening and intervention.

Lifestyle adjustments to reduce glaucoma risk or progression

Several lifestyle adjustments can potentially reduce the risk of glaucoma or its progression:

Regular exercise

Moderate, regular exercise may reduce eye pressure and help prevent glaucoma. However, it's important to avoid extreme activities, or yoga poses that put your body upside down, which can increase eye pressure.

Healthy diet

A diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables can contribute to eye health. Certain nutrients like antioxidants may help protect the optic nerve.

Protective eyewear

Injuries can lead to secondary glaucoma. Wearing protective eyewear during sports or while working with power tools can prevent such injuries. There is also evidence that the UV rays from the sun can cause glaucoma, so wear polarized sunglasses and a hat when going outdoors on sunny days.

Avoid excessive eye pressure

Some activities like yoga poses that involve inverting the body or playing wind instruments can increase eye pressure. It’s wise to moderate these activities if you're at risk.

Keep up with dental care

There is some evidence that gum disease may be linked to glaucoma and optic nerve damage. Brush and floss daily and keep up with your twice-annual dental cleanings and exams.

Glaucoma screening and early detection

Early detection is the most crucial step in preventing glaucoma’s severe consequences. Get regular eye examinations that include measurements of eye pressure, a thorough examination of the optic nerve, and tests of peripheral vision.

 The frequency of these eye exams depends on your age and risk factors. For most adults, a comprehensive eye exam is recommended every one to two years.

Medical interventions

For those at high risk or in the early stages of glaucoma, medical interventions may help prevent its progression. These can include:

Medications

Eye drops or oral medications can reduce eye pressure.

Laser treatment

Certain types of laser surgery can improve the flow of fluid within the eye, reducing eye pressure.

Surgery

In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to create a new drainage path for eye fluid. Dr. Bergman offers minimally invasive glaucoma surgery with advanced techniques designed to reduce intraocular pressure in your eye.

Schedule an eye exam

While it’s not possible to prevent glaucoma entirely, especially given its ties to genetics and unavoidable age-related risks, the strategies above can play a significant role in reducing its likelihood and severity. Early detection through regular eye exams is paramount. 

Call the office or schedule an appointment online for a comprehensive eye exam to check for glaucoma.