Increase in Glaucoma Cases: 20% of Patients Suffer Due to Stress Caused by Unhealthy Lifestyles

The rising stress levels caused by changing lifestyles are increasingly contributing to various health issues, including glaucoma. Among patients aged between 25 and 50, 20% are facing the challenge of glaucoma due to stress.

Glaucoma is a condition that occurs when the structure responsible for draining fluid from the eye is either malfunctioning or improperly formed, leading to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). If not treated in time, this elevated pressure can damage the optic nerve and retinal fibers, potentially resulting in permanent blindness. The eye continuously produces a fluid called aqueous humor, which lubricates certain parts of the eye.

This fluid is absorbed into the blood vessels, maintaining a balance between production and absorption. The pressure generated by this fluid within the eye is known as intraocular pressure (IOP). Working night shifts, sleep deprivation, a hectic lifestyle, and poor nutrition can lead to stress-induced glaucoma as stress affects IOP.

Recently, there has been a 2% increase in glaucoma cases. Out of every 100 cases, 3 patients suffer from primary open-angle glaucoma (acute glaucoma), and 0.3% of patients have closed-angle glaucoma. Factors like genetics, age, and stress contribute to the onset of glaucoma. Today, patients visiting hospitals are showing signs of glaucoma, along with increased intraocular pressure.

Making precise lifestyle changes can be beneficial for overall health and particularly helpful in preventing conditions like glaucoma. Ensuring adequate sleep, regular exercise, incorporating fruits and green leafy vegetables into the diet, consuming natural vitamins, and drinking green tea are all beneficial practices. On the other hand, habits like smoking, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use damage the blood vessels in the eyes, rendering medications ineffective. Mental stress also negatively affects the blood supply to the optic nerve.