Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause damage to the optic nerve, resulting in vision loss and blindness. It is a leading cause of blindness worldwide and often goes unnoticed until significant vision loss has occurred.
Glaucoma is caused by increased pressure in the eye, also known as intraocular pressure. The increased pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. The pressure in the eye is maintained by a fluid called aqueous humor. If the fluid does not drain properly, it can cause an increase in pressure in the eye. In some cases, glaucoma can also occur due to poor blood flow to the optic nerve.
The following are several risk factors to Glaucoma:
People over the age of 60 are at an increased risk of developing glaucoma.
If someone in your family has glaucoma, your risk of developing the condition is higher.
African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at an increased risk of developing certain types of glaucoma.
Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease are all associated with an increased risk of developing glaucoma.
Injuries to the eye can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.
Prolonged use of steroids can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.
Glaucoma is often diagnosed during a routine eye exam. The exam includes measuring the intraocular pressure and examining the optic nerve. Your doctor may also perform a visual field test to check for any vision loss. If your doctor suspects glaucoma, they may perform additional tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or gonioscopy to get a better look at the optic nerve and drainage angle.
The treatment of glaucoma depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, eye drops may be prescribed to lower intraocular pressure. The drops work by either decreasing the amount of fluid produced in the eye or improving the drainage of fluid from the eye. It is important to use the drops as prescribed and to follow up with the doctor regularly.
If eye drops are not effective in controlling intraocular pressure, the doctor may recommend other treatments such as laser therapy or surgery. Laser therapy can help improve the drainage of fluid from the eye, while surgery can create a new drainage channel to lower the pressure.
Eating a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole nuts.
Engaging in regular exercise.
Managing other health conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Quitting smoking.
Millions of people deal with eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis. The conjunctiva which is a transparent membrane that covers the white of your eye (the sclera) is ten times more sensitive than the skin to allergens.
Over the years, we’ve heard a lot about our eyes and eye glasses, and we wonder whether some of the information we’ve received is true. When it concerns your eye health, it’s necessary to be well-informed so as to take the best care of your eyes and to be able to tell a myth from the actual fact.
