Lifestyle Changes to Manage Glaucoma
Although there are no specific lifestyle measures to help treat
glaucoma, the Glaucoma Research Foundation suggests a couple
of general tips to improve your overall health, which may have
an effect on your disease.
General Guidelines
- Eat a healthful diet
- Exercise regularly
Eat a Healthful Diet
Although no conclusive studies have shown a link between glaucoma and diet, the Glaucoma Research Foundation suggests that eating a healthful diet will benefit your general health and help your body fight disease.
Some of the vitamins and minerals important to general
eye health include the minerals zinc and copper; the antioxidant vitamins C, E,
and A; beta-carotene, lutein, and other nutrients. There is no evidence that any
of these nutrients specifically help prevent or treat glaucoma.
Exercise Regularly
There is some preliminary evidence that links regular exercise with a reduction in eye pressure. In addition, regular exercise can help you manage other possible risk factors, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
However, people with certain forms of glaucoma may experience an increase in eye pressure after strenuous exercise. It is important that you talk with your doctor before beginning any type of exercise program.
SOURCES:
The Glaucoma Foundation
Last reviewed September 2003 by Marc Ellman, MD
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