The link between stress and glaucoma is not straightforward, but it’s something researchers are paying close attention to. Glaucoma is a condition where the pressure inside the eye rises, damaging the optic nerve and potentially causing permanent vision loss if not caught early.

Doctors have been studying glaucoma for years because it has a big impact on people's eyesight and overall well-being. Studies show that stress and anxiety, which can raise cortisol levels, might contribute to the development or worsening of glaucoma. Dr. Hasanain Shikari, an eye specialist, explains all you need to know about this connection.

Studies have shown that stress causes an increase in hormones like cortisol, which can also raise eye pressure which is a key factor in glaucoma. High, uncontrolled, or fluctuating eye pressure damages the optic nerve, leading to vision loss over time. Since cortisol levels rise during stress, this can contribute to glaucoma’s progression.

Chronic stress and anxiety can also lead to poor sleep, unhealthy habits, and lifestyle choices, all of which can worsen optic nerve damage. This creates a cycle where the stress of living with glaucoma, combined with the fear of losing eyesight, makes the condition worse. Poor sleep can further increase eye pressure, while unhealthy behaviors like smoking, poor diet, physical inactivity, alcohol use, and not sticking to glaucoma treatments can harm blood flow to the optic nerve, speeding up the disease.

To manage glaucoma, it’s important to manage stress and lower cortisol levels. Practicing meditation, regular exercise, yoga, and seeking psychological support, along with sticking to treatment plans and having regular eye check-ups, are helpful. Apart from this, reducing smoking and alcohol intake while following a healthy diet can also protect your eyesight.

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