Eye Health Issues

[ChannelsN]

I've had a long-standing eye issue for over 40 years, with poor distance vision and difficulty reading. Despite regular eye tests at Moorefields Eye Hospital, and other specialist ophthalmologists and opticians, no specific diagnosis was made. A recent private ophthalmologist visit revealed that cataract surgery could improve my sight, and suspected glaucoma, although my eye pressure was within normal limits (18 and 16). I was prescribed Monopost eye drops indefinitely and underwent successful cataract surgery. Post-surgery, my near vision improved with prescription glasses, but distance vision remained unchanged. My eye pressure has stabilized at 14, and I've not been definitively diagnosed with glaucoma. I'm now using Camellose eye drops alongside Monopost. As a 65-year-old diabetic and hypertensive individual, I'd appreciate advice on maintaining good eye health and managing the long-term effects of these eye drops.

[KieranGlaucomaUK Administrator]

Hi there. To maintain good eye health we recommend eating a healthy and balanced diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables (especially green leafy vegetables). Exercise is recommended (this can be light exercise like walking) to improve circulation to the eyes. Quit smoking if you smoke, and limit alcohol if you drink. Protect your eyes from UV by wearing good quality sunglasses (you can speak to the optician about this).

To protect the eyes from side effects from the monopost, continue to use dry eye drops as needed. Using the lubrication drops 30 minutes before the monopost can help too. Omega-3s can also help dry eyes, so two portions of oily fish per week or perhaps supplement. Heated eye masks can also help dry eye, as it can help to naturally stimulate the oil glands in the eye.

[Angel5454]

I had cataract surgery within the same year as a detached retina in my left eye and hole in my right eye. I can’t really say what my eyesight was like as I had so much going on but with my follow up appointments I was diagnosed with glaucoma. I had eye drops for about six years until last year I had to have glaucoma surgery as my medication was not working. I m still in eye drops but the progression has been stopped in my left eye. When you have so many things going on your vision changes all the time. Since my glaucoma surgery my eyesight has changed a lot. I now have to have a lot higher prescription which has taken a lot of getting used to.