Dr Dory Neu-Ner specialises in the treatment of glaucoma at his practice in Fourways. Glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure of fluid inside the eye, also known as the intraocular pressure, increases and threatens a patient’s vision. If the condition is not corrected, the pressure can become high enough to damage the optic nerve and possibly lead to total blindness. In order to have and maintain good vision, the health of your optic nerve is extremely important
Did you know that glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in people who are over the age of 60 years? Although it can occur at any age, it is more common in older adults. It is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve in the eye. This nerve supplies visual information to your brain from your eyes. Glaucoma is often a silent disease, and can be detected during a regular eye examination.
Dr. Dory Neu-Ner is an experienced, compassionate ophthalmologist who understands the anatomy of the eye. He strives to give the best possible eye care for all his patients and focuses strongly on provide them with all-round, quality services.
Because many forms of the disease have no warning signs, you may not even know you have glaucoma until it is in an advanced stage. If left untreated, the damage becomes so bad that it can ultimately lead to vision loss or total blindness.
How do you stop glaucoma from progressing?
Eat a healthy diet to maintain overall health, though it will not prevent glaucoma from worsening. Exercise regularly and safely, as it may help reduce eye pressure. Limit your caffeine intake, wear eye protection, ensure get regular eye exams and take any prescribed medication as directed.
Is glaucoma curable?
While there is no cure for glaucoma at present, early treatment can help slow or halt the progression of vision loss. Treatment options, which depend on factors such as age, type, and severity of glaucoma, may include medications and/or surgery aimed at reducing eye pressure.
What is glaucoma caused by?
Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive eye disease characterized by damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of the visual field. Elevated eye pressure is a significant risk factor, often caused by abnormalities in the eye’s drainage system that lead to fluid accumulation and increased pressure, which damages the optic nerve.
What should you avoid if you have glaucoma?
Along with avoiding caffeine, saturated fats, trans fats, and salt, glaucoma patients should also steer clear of any foods to which they are allergic. Although making these dietary changes may be challenging, they are important for maintaining eye health.
How long can you live with glaucoma before going blind?
The timeline for vision loss due to glaucoma can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the disease, as well as how well it is managed. Glaucoma typically progresses slowly, and vision loss can occur over several years. Untreated glaucoma takes about 10-15 years to advance to total blindness.
Can drinking more water lower eye pressure?
Consume fluids in moderation. It’s important to be aware that drinking a large volume of water in a short period can increase intraocular pressure.
What lowers eye pressure naturally?
Natural methods to help lower eye pressure include regular exercise, a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, and maintaining a healthy weight. Limiting caffeine intake and drinking fluids in moderate amounts can also be beneficial. Additionally, managing stress and performing certain eye exercises may contribute to reducing intraocular pressure.
What habits worsen glaucoma?
Excessive caffeine intake is discouraged as it can cause temporary increases in intraocular pressure, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition or a family history of glaucoma. Additionally, chronic alcohol consumption may lead to systemic complications and an elevated risk of developing glaucoma.
What foods are good for glaucoma?
To potentially reduce the risk of developing glaucoma, consider including the following items in your diet: nuts and seeds, fish, chocolate, tea, and sources of magnesium such as bananas, avocados, and black beans.
What does a person with glaucoma see?
Individuals with glaucoma typically experience a gradual loss of peripheral vision while maintaining central vision. This often feels like looking through a tube, where objects straight ahead are seen clearly, but peripheral areas appear dim or blurred. The vision loss generally begins from the side closest to the nose.
When is it too late to treat glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a condition that gradually and silently causes vision loss over many years. When blurry vision occurs due to glaucoma, significant damage has already been done.
What are the 5 stages of glaucoma?
Glaucoma progresses through several stages, starting with Stage 0, where the visual field remains normal. It then advances to Stage I, characterized by early signs, followed by Stage 2, which indicates moderate damage. Stage 3 represents advanced glaucoma, while Stage 4 is severe, and Stage 5 denotes end-stage glaucoma.
Can glaucoma be cured by surgery?
Surgery cannot cure glaucoma or reverse vision loss, but it can protect existing vision and prevent further deterioration. Various surgical options are available to help reduce intraocular pressure, including trabeculectomy and glaucoma implant surgery.
Is glaucoma painful?
Glaucoma may cause pain in some cases, but it is important to remember that elevated eye pressure and glaucoma can occur without any pain. If you have a type of glaucoma that causes discomfort, effective treatment can alleviate the pain.
Can glaucoma be cured with eye drops?
Prescription eye drops are the most common treatment for glaucoma. They lower intraocular pressure and help prevent damage to the optic nerve. While these drops do not cure glaucoma or restore lost vision, they can prevent the condition from worsening.