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| FALL 2000 – WINTER 2001 | |||
Exercise and GlaucomaAccording to Dr. Robert Ritch, medical director of the Glaucoma Foundation, “regular exercise can lower your intraocular pressure, the most significant risk factor for glaucoma.” He goes on to say that “keeping your pressure down can be very therapeutic.” Various research studies have been conducted on aerobic exercises — bicycling, brisk walking, marathon running, jogging, swimming and gym conditioning. It was determined that intense exercise can lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Dr. Ritch does caution, however, to avoid exercises or sports that includes standing on your heads or shoulders or turning your bodies upside down. “Activities like certain yoga positions, suba diving and bungee jumping are not advised. They can raise your IOP.”
Early detection by regular eye exams and treatment can control glaucoma and prevent blindness (Source: Associated Press, June 5, 2000). The ISPB and the Glaucoma Foundation strongly suggest having eye and health examinations before starting any type of physical exercise.
The Visionary , published as a service of the Illinois Society for the Prevention of Blindness,is available upon request. The information contained in this issue, taken from sources considered to be accurate, does not replace the need for professional eye care consultations and treatments. |
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© Copyright 2001 - 2006 Illinois Society for the Prevention of Blindness |
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Any
exerciser needs to drink plenty of liquids before, during and after
workouts. But Dr. Ritch urges doing it slowly. “Drinking a quart of
water within 15 to 30 minutes can cause a rise in IOP. Patients with
glaucoma should be especially cautious. Although there is no need to limit
your total fluid intake, use common sense as to how fast it goes down.”
