Glaucoma Prevention

glaucoma prevention

Glaucoma prevention means taking steps to lower the chance of developing the eye disease that damages the optic nerve and can cause irreversible vision loss. It focuses on identifying risk factors early, protecting eye health, and treating problems that raise eye pressure before they cause harm. Because the damage from glaucoma often builds up slowly without pain or obvious symptoms, prevention emphasizes early detection and ongoing care. Regular checkups can spot pressure changes or nerve damage long before you notice vision problems. Being aware of your family history and other medical conditions that affect the eyes or blood flow also matters. Practical prevention steps include scheduling routine eye exams, managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and following your eye doctor's treatment plan. Lifestyle habits such as not smoking, staying physically active, and protecting your eyes from injury can also lower risk. If you are prescribed eye drops to lower eye pressure, using them exactly as directed is one of the most effective ways to prevent progression. In some cases, doctors may recommend laser or surgical treatments to reduce pressure when medication is not enough. Understanding and following prevention measures matters because vision lost from glaucoma cannot be restored, so early action greatly improves the chances of keeping good sight.