If one has glaucoma, are there any changes in life-style which can help to control the disease?
- A healthy body is good for a healthy eye, but there is no strong evidence of any life-style changes specifically aimed to improve glaucoma control/prevention.
- Consumption of food rich in Antioxidants (green leafy vegetables, salads) is good for the body in general.
- There is some evidence that wearing a tight neck tie may elevate the eye pressure.
- Drinking large amounts of any liquid within a very short time can also increase eye pressure. Patients with glaucoma may drink plenty of fluids (healthy habit), but they should drink them in normal amounts over the course of a day.
- All systemic diseases like diabetes and hypertension should be well controlled in consultation with a qualified physician.
- Patients who are on anti-hypertensive should not have a very low blood pressure, as low blood pressure may be harmful for glaucoma.
- Glaucoma patients can do all physical exercise (particularly aerobic exercise), which may protect against glaucoma. Yoga is acceptable but one should avoid exercises with head down postures like shirshasana/sarvangasana (yoga positions) as these can cause an increase in Intraocular pressure.
- Meditation and relaxation exercises can help reduce the stress and anxiety in glaucoma patients and their caregivers.
- Quit smoking is good for the body in general.
