4 Tips to Better Manage Glaucoma During the COVID-19 Times

August 7, 2020

4 Tips to Better Manage Glaucoma During the COVID-19 Times

Over the past few months, the Glaucoma Research Foundation has recorded the concerns of a number of patients and eye care professionals about glaucoma care during the coronavirus outbreak. Worldwide shutdowns have significantly impacted access to prescription medications, regularly scheduled eye exams from glaucoma specialists, and broader concerns about eye health and safety. As the nation is facing tremendous challenges, it is important for glaucoma patients to take good care of themselves so that they can prevent their eye health from worsening. Read on to know how to better manage glaucoma during the COVID-19 times.

1. Know Your Risks and Take Extra Precaution

Glaucoma is a type of optic nerve damage that can lead to worse outcomes, especially in advanced stages. The condition is more prevalent among people with diabetes and hypertension, which makes them especially vulnerable to COVID-19 infection. It is, therefore, important to follow CDC-recommended precautions to control the spread of virus. It is also advisable to clean eye drops bottles with disinfecting wipes before use.

2. Organize Your Medicines and Stock Accordingly

Lockdown has impacted demand and supply of medicines significantly, which may sometimes lead to difficulty in procuring prescription medicines on time. Glaucoma patients should track their medicines closely so that they know how long they will last and keep an extra stock to be on the safer side. Those who have glaucoma and are infected with coronavirus should discuss their medications with their glaucoma specialist and schedule an online eye doctor consultation if necessary.

3. Stay Healthy

Glaucoma patients should take extra care of their eyes and make it a point to keep them clean. Cleaning hands with soap or sanitizers before and after using the eye drops is a must. It is also advisable to wear goggles when swimming and protective glasses when moving the lawn or doing yard work. Also, people with glaucoma should do eye exercises regularly to strengthen their eye muscles. Better managing stress levels is also necessary, as it can help prevent the condition from worsening.

4. Opt for Virtual Eye Consultation

Glaucoma patients should not miss their appointments with their eye doctors. In cases where in-clinic consultation is not possible, opting for an online eye doctor consultation can help. It is important to report any symptoms such as eye watering, scratchiness, and irritation to the glaucoma specialist during online consultation.

Lastly

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that needs utmost attention and care. Following eye care routines and taking medication on time is key to ensure optimal eye health and wellbeing. If you want to consult a glaucoma specialist for glaucoma surgery or laser treatment in and around Texas, look no further than Texas Eye and Cataract. Our team of experienced eye surgeons specialise in a number of eye surgeries such as the glaucoma surgery and laser cataract surgery. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an online eye doctor consultation in Waxahachie, Texas, call 469-505-2020 or email info@teceyecare.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I give someone recovering from cataract surgery?

The most practical gifts are preservative-free artificial tears, wraparound sunglasses, audiobooks or a podcast subscription, meal delivery, button-front or zip-front pajamas, a warm eye compress mask, and a drop or medication organizer. Offering your time for rides, errands, or company is also one of the most appreciated gifts of all.

What should I avoid giving a cataract surgery patient?

Avoid heavily fragranced flowers, gifts that require lifting or assembly, eyedrops that are not preservative-free, and fitness or exercise-related gifts. These either pose a physical risk during recovery or aren't appropriate until the patient is cleared for full activity.

How long does cataract surgery recovery take?

Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days to a week. Restrictions on bending, lifting, and swimming typically ease within two to four weeks, and most patients are fully back to normal routines by the one-month mark.

Why can't cataract surgery patients wear pullover shirts?

Raising the arms overhead to pull on or remove a shirt can accidentally bump or put pressure on the operated eye during early recovery. Button-down or zip-front tops are a safer, more comfortable choice for the first week.

Can cataract surgery patients watch TV or use their phone?

Screen time is generally recommended to be limited for the first one to three days after surgery, as it can cause eye strain during early healing. Audiobooks and podcasts are a great alternative during this period.

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