Mitigating glaucoma in everyday life can be challenging, especially since it’s not typically curable, so the most reliable way to treat it is to simply prevent it from worsening. Nevertheless, you can still live a happy, high-quality lifestyle with this condition. Although it may demand some adjustments and take some practice, knowing what works is a crucial first step. 

How to Manage Glaucoma 

1. Stay Extra Tidy 

Keep rugs flat and all floor surfaces clear of unnecessary or loose objects so that you don’t trip on them. Get into the habit of keeping doors and cupboards completely open or shut at all times to minimize the odds that you’ll bump into them. Just in case you missed something, hold your palm roughly a foot in front of your face to save yourself from hitting your head if you ever need to bend down. 

2. Use Light & Colors 

Glaucoma takes away some of your eyesight, but as long as you have some left, you can benefit from keeping hallways, rooms, and closets at least partially lit at all times. Additionally, you may like to place brightly colored tape on the handrails, stairs, corners, and glass windows throughout your home so that you don’t hurt yourself by tripping, falling, or walking into something. 

3. Take Care of Your Eyes  

Practicing good eye care will prevent your glaucoma from worsening. Exercise routinely to encourage blood flow to the nerves in your eyes while keeping the pressure low. Avoid caffeine so that your blood pressure doesn’t rise, and drink water intermittently throughout the day so that your eyes aren’t overwhelmed with hydration. Also, keep your head elevated while sleeping, exercising, or doing yoga to keep blood from rushing to your eyes and causing more pressure. Smoking provokes inflammation throughout your body, including your eyes, so work on quitting if you do it. Lastly, consistently follow the instructions your eye doctor provides, including using pills or medicated eye drops, shielding your eyes from further damage by wearing protective eyewear when you’re outside or swimming, and being careful not to rub them.  

4. Ask for Help 

Don’t be shy about asking for guidance from someone close to you. Place your hand just above their elbow and slightly behind them so that they can safely and effectively lead you. If it’s your first time in a place that you expect to visit regularly, request a tour as well, and be especially vigilant about memorizing how to reach important places like bathrooms, entrances, and exits. 

For regular checkups and more professional advice about living with glaucoma, contact Midwest Eye Center: A Division of TriState Centers for Sight, serving the Greater Cincinnati, OH, area. With more than 34 years of experience in performing glaucoma surgery and providing other treatments for the condition, Dr. James J. Sanitato is more than capable of offering the compassionate, attentive, and reliable eye care that you need. Make an appointment today by calling (859) 525-6215 or message his office online.