Follow these simple steps to avoid glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye disease in which loss of vision occurs gradually and over a long period. It is also known as the “silent thief of sight” because, during its early stages, it does not show any symptoms or pain but later leads to irreparable vision damage. The condition happens due to build-up of fluid in the eye that increases pressure on the optic nerve transmitting visual images to the brain.
India is among the top countries in the world where glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness. Every year around 1.3 lakh Indians go blind because of it. In fact, 68% of the total population runs the risk of the disease and out of these only 10% are aware of this threat! However, it can be treated if detected early. Follow these steps to prevent it from happening to you.
Regular Eye Care
This is an indispensable part of treating glaucoma early, because detection during initial stages is the key to preventing further loss of vision. It ensures that loss of vision (if any) is minimal and does not increase over time.
Ideally, one should consult an ophthalmologist to find out the check-up best suited to them, but a general rule is that a person above 40 years should get the eyes checked once every 1-2 years. The frequency increases to twice a year, once the age of 65 is crossed. People with a family history are more susceptible and therefore must go for screenings more often.
Regular Exercise
Being a fitness freak has its own advantages, and this is one of them. Even a person with a moderate exercise regimen, who walks/jogs three times a week, stands to benefit from lower risk. How? Regular exercise is known to reduce blood pressure throughout the body, as well the Intra Ocular Pressure (also known as IOP or eye pressure).
Eye Protection
If you’re a sports lover and tend to take part in various events every week, you need to be extra careful. The same goes for people who take up home improvement projects. Sometimes, a serious injury to the eye is all it takes to bring about glaucoma. To ensure that any mishap doesn’t occur, it becomes essential to wear protective glasses while undertaking any of the above activities.
The above steps will help you to prevent glaucoma from affecting you. But a comprehensive health insurance policy will be helpful in the unfortunate event of you getting diagnosed with it. You’ll find comfort in knowing that all your medical expenses have been taken care of and you will also get cashless hospitalisation and free check-up at the network hospitals.
Related Article:
Your New Year Health Resolutions
Protect Your Heart Before It’s Too Late