Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a general term for eye disease that causes vision loss or blindness by affecting the nerve at the back of your eye, called the optic nerve. It affects 70 million people globally and is the second leading cause of blindness after cataracts. While there is no cure for Glaucoma, early detection and treatment can prevent further damage and protect your vision.
Who is at Risk?
While anyone can develop Glaucoma, you are at higher risk of developing it if you:
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Are over the age of 60, especially if you are Hispanic/Latino
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Are African American over the age of 40
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Use steroid medications
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Have a family history of Glaucoma
What causes Glaucoma?
There are many types of Glaucoma, but the most common type is called Open-Angle Glaucoma. This occurs when the drainage angle for fluid within the eye remains open, but the microscopic passageways are blocked. This leads to an increase in eye pressure, which slowly damages the optic nerve.
What are the symptoms of Glaucoma?
Unlike other eye diseases, Glaucoma usually does not present any visible symptoms. However, over time, the peripheral vision may begin to decrease, followed by central vision, resulting in blindness if left untreated. One of the big issues is that since glaucoma develops slowly, many people do not notice the initial gradual decrease in vision. That is why it is very important for people who are at risk of developing Glaucoma to come in and get their eyes examined.