How lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise can affect people living with glaucoma? - gurjeet Jutley
Gurjeet Jutley - We are often asked by our patients if any lifestyle modifications can help manage glaucoma. This is an interesting topic and is worth exploring, as some evidence does exist that lifestyle factors may exert an influence on eye pressure. In this article, Gurjeet Jutley explores how lifestyle choices can impact your condition. Food and drink Caffeine Large amounts of caffeine can have the effect of raising the pressure in your eyes, as well as having systemic detriment to the body as a whole. Where possible, aim to reduce caffeine intake, particularly if more than five strong cups are consumed daily. Alcohol Excessive alcohol drinking can damage the optic nerve, so called toxic neuropathy. We also see instantaneous optic nerve damage with methanol ingestion. Clearly, moderated alcohol consumption promotes better health all round. Smoking The health risks of smoking are well-documented, and while there are no specific links between smoking and glaucoma, older smokers may ...