Think of your eyes like a high-definition camera—constantly adjusting to capture light, detail, and movement. Now, picture that lens gradually narrowing its field of view, bit by bit, without any obvious warning. That’s how glaucoma often works: quietly and over time.
Nicknamed “the silent thief of sight,” glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, most commonly due to an increase in eye pressure (called intraocular pressure). It’s one of the leading causes of permanent vision loss in the United States. But there's hope: with early detection, ongoing care, and mindful lifestyle choices, living well with glaucoma is possible.
The team at Oakbrook Optometry in Thousand Oaks can help you stay ahead of vision loss with personalized glaucoma care so you can keep your focus on what matters most.
Understanding Glaucoma and its Effects on Vision
Glaucoma affects more than 3 million Americans—and the National Eye Institute estimates that the number will double by 2050. Most people don’t notice symptoms until their side vision starts fading, and by then, irreversible damage has already occurred. This makes regular eye exams essential, especially after age 40.
Different types of glaucoma exist, but the most common—primary open-angle glaucoma—develops gradually and painlessly. You may not realize something is wrong until it affects your field of view. Once that vision is lost, it can’t be regained.
Lifestyle Tips to Help Manage Glaucoma
Health is wealth, and your lifestyle significantly affects glaucoma progression. While there’s no cure for the eye condition, there are simple, practical steps you can take to protect your eyes and slow progression:
Eat with Eye Health in Mind
Leafy greens like kale and spinach and omega-3s from fish such as salmon or tuna can help support optic nerve health.
Get Regular Exercise
Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling may help reduce eye pressure. Skip the headstands—they can increase the pressure!
Keep Track of Your Health
Managing your overall health, especially conditions like high blood pressure can play a role in controlling glaucoma and preventing further damage.
Drink Less Caffeine
Too much coffee or energy drinks can raise eye pressure. You can still enjoy that latte or iced mocha, but try to limit it to one per day.
Sleep with Your Head Slightly Elevated
A wedge pillow or adjustable bed frame can help reduce pressure that builds up overnight.
Wear Eye Protection
Sunglasses and safety glasses can shield your eyes from UV damage and prevent injury, helping to keep your eyes healthy.
Glaucoma Management at Oakbrook Optometry
Our eye doctors can conduct a thorough eye examination to create custom care plans for your needs. Our glaucoma management services include:
- Prescription eye drops to help lower intraocular pressure.
- Advanced imaging and pressure testing to monitor your optic nerve.
- Referral and co-management for surgical options if drops or laser treatments aren’t enough.
- Ongoing education and support so you understand your treatment and feel empowered.
Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been managing glaucoma for a long time, we are here to help. We want to help you keep your independence and stay ahead of any vision changes.
Safeguard Your Eye Health with an Exam
Glaucoma may require lifelong care, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to define your life. Even if you're facing vision problems, you can still enjoy a full and vibrant future beyond the changes in your eyesight.
Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Oakbrook Optometry in Thousand Oaks to stay proactive about your eye health. The earlier we detect changes, the better we can protect your sight.