5 Facts about Glaucoma that Can Save Your Vision
5 Facts about Glaucoma that Can Save Your Vision
Glaucoma or kala motia causes damage to the optic nerve, and this happens due to the build-up of high intraocular pressure in the eye. In order to maintain healthy vision, the eye must properly regulate pressure by draining excess fluid. Glaucoma occurs when the eye cannot drain aqueous fluid, causing increased pressure in the eye and irreversible damage to the optic nerve. The damage to the optic nerve can cause permanent vision loss and even blindness in some cases. So, here’s a list of important facts and information about Glaucoma that can help you save your vision.
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1. Glaucoma Has No Warning Signs
Often referred to as “the sneak thief of sight,” Glaucoma usually has no early symptoms or warning signs. Vision loss associated with Glaucoma can be gradual and may even go unnoticed, as it slowly affects peripheral vision. Anyone is at risk of developing Glaucoma, and the best way to detect the eye disease is by conducting annual eye exam and Glaucoma screening tests, regularly.
2. Risk Factors
Although anyone can develop Glaucoma, the following factors may increase your risk:
- Over the age of 60
- Family history of Glaucoma
- Diabetics
- Steroid users
If you are 35 or older and fit into the “high-risk” category, it is recommended that you have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years.
Read Also : MIGS: The New Age Treatment For Glaucoma
3. Glaucoma Causes Irreversible Vision Loss or Blindness
Glaucoma cannot be cured. And vision loss associated with Glaucoma is irreversible; however, early detection of Glaucoma can slow the progression of the disease and prevent any further loss of vision. Several treatment options are available to help regulate the pressure in the eye and help aqueous fluid drain from the eye, helping to keep ocular pressure in check and prevent any further damage to the optic nerve.
4. Glaucoma Detection
During a comprehensive eye exam, several tests can help your doctor detect Glaucoma. A fully dilated exam allows an ophthalmologist to examine your optic nerve carefully. A test called ‘Tonometry’ is used to test the pressure in your eye with a puff of air. Measuring the thickness of your cornea and examining the angle of where your iris meets your cornea can also help in the diagnosis of Glaucoma. It’s important to provide a thorough family history, any previous eye trauma, and a comprehensive list of medications to your doctor which can indicate if you are at higher risk for developing Glaucoma.
5. Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Early detection is the best way to prevent or control the progression of vision loss associated with Glaucoma. Because anyone can be at risk of developing glaucoma and there are often few warning signs, it’s imperative to follow recommended guidelines for routine eye exams. Although there is still no cure for Glaucoma, advances in ophthalmology have led to several clinical and surgical treatment options to help Glaucoma patients slow the progression of the disease and prevent any further loss of vision. Common treatments include the use of drops, laser treatments, and the surgical implantation of shunts, stents, or valves.
For more queries or to schedule an annual eye exam or Glaucoma screening at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, speak to our representative. Call 01140128881.
