Dr Schendel Optholomologist Vancouver

Educational video describing Diagnosing Glaucoma

Treatment

  • Prescription eye drops.

  • Laser treatment.

  • Glaucoma surgery.

6. Prevention and management

  • Regular comprehensive eye examinations.

  • Using prescribed eye drops consistently.

  • Attending follow-up appointments.

  • Educating family members about glaucoma risk.

Why is glaucoma education important?

  • Helps people detect glaucoma early.

  • Prevents avoidable blindness through early treatment.

  • Encourages regular eye examinations.

  • Improves medication adherence.

  • Helps patients understand how to manage the condition.

Key message

Glaucoma-related vision loss is usually irreversible, but early detection and appropriate treatment can help protect the remaining vision.

Dr Schendel Optholomologist Vancouver

Educational video describing Diagnosing Glaucoma

Glaucoma usually develops when pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) becomes too high, although it can also occur with normal eye pressure.

Important topics in glaucoma education

1. Causes and risk factors

  • Increased eye pressure.

  • Family history of glaucoma.

  • Older age.

  • Diabetes and certain other health conditions.

2. Types of glaucoma

  • Open-angle glaucoma.

  • Angle-closure glaucoma.

  • Normal-tension glaucoma.

  • Congenital glaucoma.

3. Signs and symptoms

  • Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision.

  • Blurred vision in some cases.

  • Severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and sudden blurred vision in acute angle-closure glaucoma.

4. Diagnosis

  • Eye pressure measurement.

  • Visual field testing.

  • Optic nerve examination.

  • OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography).

Eye Health Nutrition NOW

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Dr. David Maberley, MD, FRCSC, Ophthalmologist, Ottawa. ON

The Eye Health Benefits of salmon and sardines.

4. Control blood sugar (very important)

High blood sugar increases risk and progression of cataracts.

Helpful foods: Eye Nutrition

  • Whole grains: oats, quinoa, brown rice
  • Legumes: lentils, chickpeas, beans
  • High-fiber vegetables

Limit:

  • Sugary drinks
  • Refined carbs (white bread, pastries)

5. Hydration + lens clarity support

  • Adequate water intake supports ocular fluid balance
  • Avoid chronic dehydration, which can worsen eye stress

Key nutrition goals for cataracts

1. Antioxidant protection (reduces lens oxidative damage)

Oxidative stress is one of the main contributors to cataract formation.

Focus on:

  • Vitamin C: oranges, kiwi, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli
  • Vitamin E: almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, avocado
  • Polyphenols: blueberries, blackberries, green tea

2. Carotenoids for lens and retinal support

These pigments help filter damaging light and reduce oxidative stress.

Important ones:

  • Lutein + zeaxanthin: kale, spinach, Swiss chard, corn, peas, egg yolk
  • Beta-carotene: carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin

3. Omega-3 fatty acids (anti-inflammatory support)

May support overall eye surface health and reduce inflammation and support Eye Nutrition:

  • Fatty fish: salmon, sardines, mackerel
  • Plant sources: flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts

Emily Campbell, RD, Registered Dietitian and Dr David Maberely

The Nutritional Power of Salmon and Sardines

Dr. Setareh Ziai, MD, FRCSC, Ophthalmologist, Ottawa, ON

Managing Eye Conditions with Nutrition - Broccoli and Brussels Sprouts

Dr. Annick Fournier, MD, FRCSC, Ophthalmologist, Ottawa. ON

Educational video describing the benefits of pistachios and nuts,