Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. This nerve connects the eyes to the brain, and when it is affected, the patient suffers from partial or total vision loss. Often linked to an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), Glaucoma symptoms usually only appear in the advanced stages, presenting a challenge to early diagnosis. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause permanent vision impairment. However, a positive mindset, early detection and following the treatment plan correctly can significantly slow the progression of Glaucoma. Regular eye check-ups, taking the prescribed medication at the correct times and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are non-negotiable. Additionally, low-vision aids and a support system can make living with glaucoma more manageable.
Have you ever felt like your eye-sight is becoming slightly blurred? Do you see rainbow-coloured circles around bright lights? Do your eyes hurt when you move them? If you do, you should visit your eye doctor for an eye test. You might have Glaucoma.
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, slowly leading to loss of vision. The optic nerve is the main link between the eyes and the brain. It transmits visual data to the brain, so we can see. Glaucoma is often associated with increased pressure inside the eye. This is called intraocular pressure (IOP). Glaucoma symptoms tend to appear in the more advanced stages, making this condition difficult to diagnose. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve, resulting in permanent partial or total loss of vision. Early detection and treatment can slow the progress of glaucoma and minimise vision loss.
If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with Glaucoma, it could’ve come as a bit of a shock. However, living with glaucoma can be less painful if approached with the correct mindset. In this article we will elaborate on some strategies and perspectives you can maintain, to make living with glaucoma easier for you.
Being diagnosed with Glaucoma doesn’t have to mean total catastrophe. Most patients can be treated and given help to manage the disease. You do not have to be limited by your diagnosis. You can continue to enjoy your life. A positive attitude can go very far, allowing you to overcome the minor hassles that may come with the condition. Take good care of yourself and you will be able to continue to make plans and experience new things and live your life to the fullest. The medical community continues to do research to improve glaucoma treatment. You have a responsibility to yourself to keep your hope alive.
It is shocking to get this diagnosis, but put that aside for a second and try to really understand your diagnosis. Your eye doctor is the best person to speak to about this. Ask them all your questions and absorb the information as calmly as you can. There are different types of glaucoma – open-angle, angle-closure, normal-tension and secondary glaucomas. Find out which type you have and learn more about the specific cause. Visit trusted medical websites for more information about Glaucoma as a condition.
Once you’ve been diagnosed, the doctor will assess the type and severity of your glaucoma and devise a treatment plan. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan to the T. If something doesn’t work for you, or you don’t understand why it’s needed, please ask your doctor to clarify. However, do not miss any steps in your treatment without first informing your doctor. Take your medication regularly. Many patients find that setting a reminder on their phone helps. Taking your medication in the correct dosage, on time, is the most important step in preventing your vision from getting worse. Do not miss any follow-up consultations with your doctor. It is vital to check eye pressure regularly, especially in the initial stages. This is how the doctor can assess if the situation is under control and if the medication is working. Maintaining a good relationship with your eye doctor is important.
Research shows that regular exercise and a healthy diet help manage glaucoma better. Eating a variety of leafy greens, fruits and vegetables is good for overall health, but particularly for glaucoma as well. It is recommended to avoid caffeine, as this could increase eye pressure. Exercise is good, but consult your doctor about the type of exercise you should be doing. Yoga positions that elevate the heart below the head or lifting heavy weights could worsen your glaucoma by increasing eye pressure, so check with your doctor and inform your trainer or yoga teacher as well. Try to minimise stressful situations in your life and create time for relaxation rituals in your day to day life.
Low vision aids are tools that help patients with vision loss see better. Some patients with glaucoma experience a loss of contrast sensitivity. This can be remedied with appropriate contact lenses or glasses. Glaucoma patients may also experience difficulties with glare, light sensitivity and reduced visual acuity. There are aids for these as well, such as magnifiers, coloured lenses and computer text enlargers. You could also turn on accessibility features, such as larger text, on your phone to make it easier to use. Trust your own judgment when it comes to your vision and get help to supplement your vision wherever you feel it lacking.
No man is an island and neither are you. You will need support on your journey with Glaucoma. Get help from a trusted group of friends and family to navigate your condition. A good support team can help you stay on track with your treatment, help you with activities you cannot do independently and generally keep you in good spirits. The idea of living with a progressive degenerative disease can be overwhelming. At such times, you could turn to a Glaucoma support group near you to connect with similar individuals who are facing the same challenges as you are. You could also seek counselling if you are struggling with debilitating feelings of anxiety or depression. Never forget that you are not alone in your struggles, and you will get through it with a little help from your loved ones.
Managing glaucoma effectively involves a combination of education, treatment adherence, and lifestyle choices. If you’re seeking expert guidance and compassionate care, the skilled ophthalmologists or eye doctors at Kauvery Hospital are here to help. With branches in Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli, and Trichy, Kauvery Hospital provides comprehensive eye care services, ensuring you have access to the best support and resources for your eye health needs.
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and pediatric trauma care.
Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4003500 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 6801
Summary Ex Vivo Lung Procedure is a kind of therapy that is beneficial to people…
Table of Content What is a Fracture? Fracture Diagnosis and Treatment Fracture Cast Fracture Cast…
Table of Content Introduction to CHF and VADs What is a Bi Ventricular Assist Device?…
Summary Typhoid is a disease caused by a bacterium known as Salmonella Typhi, primarily transmitted…
Summary Oncoplastic Breast Surgery is a specialised approach that combines breast tumour removal with reconstructive…
Table of Content What is Bad Breath? What causes Bad Breath? Who should I consult…