FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Diet, Exercise and Nutrition

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A healthy diet coupled with a daily routine of exercise is a good prescription for everyone interested in good health. But remember, every patient is different. Before making any drastic change in your diet, it is wise to communicate that intention to your doctor and discuss the pros and cons. The same advice is true for embarking on a new exercise program. While studies show that aerobic exercise can lower intraocular pressure, other forms of exercise can increase pressure. So, if you’re a glaucoma patient, it’s especially important to check with your doctor before making any lifestyle changes. Such changes could have an impact on the test results your doctor relies on to evaluate the success of your treatment plan. You can find a helpful discussion of diet and glaucoma in " Coping with Glaucoma," by Edith S. Marks (Avery-Putnam-Penguin, 1997). There is further information regarding aerobic exercise on this site, in this article entitled "Eye Experts Reveal Bonus For Exercise".

For years it was thought that caffeine had no affect on IOP, except in rare instances. Now, with the concept of non-pressure dependant factors such as constriction of the veins or arteries and ocular blood flow), the question is being debated again, since caffeine can affect blood flow. There is no conclusive answer, but too much caffeine is not recommended - especially if you have cardiovascular problems or migraines.As always, only a doctor who examines your eyes can determine the most appropriate treatment for you or answer questions about your specific condition. If you remain unsure or uncomfortable with your options, we recommend seeking a second opinion.