How to Stop the Progression of Glaucoma

The optic nerve contains over one million nerve fibers that transmit visual information from your eyes to your brain, making it one of the most complex parts of your visual system. When glaucoma strikes, it silently damages these vital fibers, and, left untreated, can lead to irreversible vision loss.

Fortunately, with the right care, you can halt or slow its progression. At Negrey Eye Associates, our outstanding team of eye care specialists is committed to helping you protect your vision and maintain your quality of life. Specializing in comprehensive eye disease management, the team has extensive experience diagnosing and treating glaucoma. 

The importance of regular eye exams

The key to stopping glaucoma in its tracks lies in early detection. We recommend our patients get regular eye exams, especially as you age, or if you have a family history of glaucoma. During your exam, our team measures your intraocular pressure, examines your optic nerve, and assesses your overall eye health. These comprehensive tests allow us to detect glaucoma in its early stages, even before you notice any changes in your vision.

Following your treatment plan

A glaucoma diagnosis makes it essential to follow a comprehensive treatment plan. Glaucoma management often includes prescription eye drops that lower eye pressure. It’s crucial to use these medications exactly as prescribed. Missing doses or not using them consistently can lead to a rise in eye pressure, which can cause further damage to your optic nerve.

In addition to eye drops, our practice may recommend other treatments, such as laser treatment, depending on the severity of your condition. These advanced options can help further reduce eye pressure and preserve your vision. Trust our experienced team to tailor a treatment plan that meets your unique needs.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle

Your overall health can have a big impact on glaucoma progression. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps support your eye health. Oxidative stress is linked to cell death in glaucoma, making it beneficial to eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants to help  protect your optic nerve. Regular exercise also promotes healthy blood flow throughout the body, including to your eyes, which is essential for preventing glaucoma from worsening.

If you smoke, quit! Smoking accelerates glaucoma progression. Our team can provide resources and support if you need help making these positive changes.

Manage stress and eye strain

Chronic stress and prolonged eye strain can worsen glaucoma symptoms. Taking steps to manage stress, whether through activities like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature, can help keep your eye pressure in check. Additionally, it’s important to give your eyes regular breaks, especially if you spend a lot of time looking at screens. 

The 20-20-20 rule is a great way to reduce eye strain: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Doing so allows your eyes to have a break and reset. Staring at screens for too long without a break causes eye strain. Taking frequent breaks by looking away briefly reduces that eye strain. 

Stay informed and engaged in your care

It’s never too late to protect your eyes, and, with the right care, you can protect them from the effects of glaucoma. If you’re concerned about glaucoma, or if it’s been a while since your last eye exam, contact Negrey Eye Associates to schedule an appointment with our team today. Let’s work together to safeguard your sight for years to come.