Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a condition that can damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending signals from the eye to the brain.  It is a progressive disease that often develops slowly and without symptoms until the damage is severe. It is therefore referred to as a silent thief of sight. This damage if untreated can lead to permanent vision loss and even blindness.  However, with early detection and treatment, the progression of glaucoma can often be slowed or halted, and vision loss can be minimized.

What causes Glaucoma?

There are different types of glaucoma and each one is caused by a slightly different method. Increased pressure in the eye is responsible for damaging the optic nerve over time. However, some people with normal eye pressure can still develop glaucoma. Other factors, such as age, family history, and certain medical conditions, may also increase the risk of developing glaucoma. 

How to avoid Glaucoma?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent glaucoma, but there are some steps you can take to help lower your risk of developing the disease. These include:

1. Getting regular comprehensive eye exams: This is the most important step you can take to detect and treat glaucoma early, before it causes significant vision loss. It is recommended that people over the age of 40 have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years.
2. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking can all help to reduce your risk of developing glaucoma and other eye diseases.
3. Managing medical conditions: If you have other medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it is important to manage them properly, as they can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.

What to do if you have glaucoma?

Treatment for glaucoma typically involves reducing the pressure in the eye to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. This can be achieved through medication, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on the severity of the disease. The goal of treatment is to slow or stop the progression of the disease and preserve as much vision as possible.

It is important to note that early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing vision loss from glaucoma. If you have any concerns about your eye health or risk of developing glaucoma, it is important to speak with an eye care professional.