According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF), yes should be checked at regular intervals. This starts with routine exams every two to four years before you turn 40. After the age of 40, eyes should be checked every one to three years until age 54. And upon reaching 55, eyes should be checked every one to two years. After age 64, have eyes checked every six to 12 months.
Further, the GRF says that those with high risk factors should be tested every one to two years after the age 35. This includes those with diabetes, a family history of glaucoma and those of African descent.
Don’t skip these necessary steps of glaucoma awareness. You’ll thank yourself later.
2. Add exercise to your routine.
We all know that exercise can have numerous cardiac benefits. But did you know that exercise can improve eye health, too?
A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that cardiovascular exercise can protect against light-induced retinal degeneration. Research also suggests that exercise can lower eye pressure. In particular, aerobic exercise can lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Further, studies show that being active potentially could increase blood flow to the retina as well as the optic nerve.
Additionally, experts say that you exercise doesn’t have to be vigorous to have a positive effect on eye health. In fact, just 20 minutes of simple movement like brisk walking a few times a week can lower intraocular pressure (IOP) if the heart rate is elevated by 20 to 25 percent.
So make exercise a part of your routine. And don’t forget to consult a doctor before beginning any new type of physical activity.