How can we help you?

Question 1 : Q: I suffer badly from hay fever. Can I take Antihistamines?

A: We always suggest you speak to your consultant before taking any over the counter medications.

Question 2 : Q: I’ve just been diagnosed with glaucoma. Can I still go to my Yoga classes or the gym or swimming pool?

A: Yes you can, though there are a couple of things to watch out for. Yoga: You need to be careful with certain positions which cause the head to go below the heart, such as the Downward Dog. You should be able to speak to your instructor and between you come up with a programme that will still give you the benefits of staying fit but without the concern that it will affect your glaucoma. Gym: You can still go to the gym but any heavy weightlifting should be avoided. When you lift a heavy weight you normally hold your breath, lift the weight and exhale. Holding your breath and lifting the weight can cause the eye pressure to rise, so is best avoided. Rather than running for a long period of time on the treadmill, say for 20 minutes without a break, try to run for 5 minutes, walk for 2 and repeat. Talk to your instructor so you can come up with a programme that won’t affect your glaucoma. Swimming: If you have glaucoma the chlorine in the water can sometimes aggravate the eye more than it would for someone who doesn’t have glaucoma. Swimming goggles are recommended, but please make sure that the goggles you wear are the larger type and not the small ones that sit within the eye socket as these can press onto the eye and can sometimes affect the eye pressure.

Question 3 : Q: Are there any lifestyle changes I should adopt?

In general you should aim to eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables. Eating oily fish at least two or three times a week is also good. Drink plenty of water, aiming for at least eight glasses a day. Try to get outside in the fresh air for a daily walk if you can. If you smoke try to cut down or stop. Having an occasional glass of wine is OK.