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Glaucoma is a disease that affects the eye’s ability to see. Fluid begins to build along the front of the eye, obstructing its view and causing a gradual loss of vision that eventually leads to total blindness. Thankfully, you can prevent this from happening by following these helpful tips.

How to Protect Your Eyes Against Glaucoma

1. Schedule an Exam

Meeting with an ophthalmologist is the best form of prevention. Their knowledge of the visual system allows them to catch symptoms early and implement treatments to stave off progression. They can also supply insight on proper forms of protection and how to preserve the condition of your eyes. People 65 and up should get checked as frequently as every six to twelve months.

2. Create an Exercise Routine

glaucomaWhether it’s walking around the block or spending an hour at the fitness center, the motion from exercise will warm your muscles, lowering the pressure around your eyes. This alleviates stress around the optical nerve and reduces the potential for glaucoma.

3. Wear Protective Eyewear

Safety goggles should be worn at any time that you’re working on a home improvement project or playing a sport. Tiny airborne particles can get caught underneath the eyelid and scratch the cornea, increasing the risk for glaucoma. Placing a solid protective layer over your eyes is an effective way to prevent vision loss.

4. Reduce Caffeine Intake

Caffeine tends to increase your heart rate. This, in turn, will temporarily raise your blood pressure, causing additional strain around the eyes. Limiting the amount of caffeine you consume will keep vitals at a manageable level and protect the optical nerve from damage.

 

If you’re overdue for a glaucoma screening, contact the team at Hawaii Vision Clinic in Aiea. These certified professionals use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose several eye conditions, like cataracts and macular degeneration. Their ophthalmologist, Dr. William K. Wong, Jr., has been recognized as one of the “Best Doctors in America” and “Hawaii’s Best Doctors” by local publications. Learn more about their services online, or call (808) 487-7938 to schedule an appointment.

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