Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damages the optic nerve. This damage can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness. The optic nerve sends visual information from your eye to the brain and is vital for good vision. Damage to the optic nerve is often related to high pressure in the eye. But glaucoma can happen even with typical eye pressure.

Glaucoma can happen at any age but is more common in older adults. It is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over the age of 60. Many forms of glaucoma have NO warning signs. The effect is so gradual that you may not notice a change in vision until the condition is in its later stages.

It's important to have regular eye exams that include measurements of your eye pressure. If glaucoma is found early, vision loss can be slowed or prevented. If you have glaucoma, you'll need treatment or monitoring for the rest of your life.

Risk Factors

• Age over 40
• Family history of glaucoma
• Vision problem
• Eye injuries
• Certain type of eye surgery
• Presence of chronic disease (e.g. diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, sickle cell anemia)
• Eye conditions (e.g. thin cornea, optic nerve sensitivity, retinal detachment tumors, and eye infection)
• Long-term use of certain medications (e.g. corticosteroids)

When to see a doctor

If symptoms such as a severe headache, eye pain, or blurred vision appear. An annual eye exam is also recommended.

How to prevent glaucoma

• Undergo regular eye exams for those with risk factors and as recommended by an  ophthalmologist.
• Wear protective eyewear to prevent serious eye injuries associated with certain types of work.
• Manage medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure, stay physically active, and avoid smoking—these healthy behaviors help prevent vision loss from glaucoma and also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions.