Eyesight often gets worse with age. Glaucoma is an eye disease that impairs vision and can cause blindness. Although the condition can happen to people from all age groups, it is more common among seniors. The guide below comprehensively discusses glaucoma, its risk factors, treatment options, and precautions that can be taken.
Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye condition responsible for damaging the optical nerve responsible for sending visual information to the brain. It is caused by increased intraocular pressure that results from the buildup of fluid (aqueous humor) in the front part of the eye. Secondary causes of glaucoma include medications that dilate the eyes and eye injuries.
Types of Glaucoma
The common types of glaucoma are open-angle glaucoma and closed-angle glaucoma.
Open-angle glaucoma is a type that develops gradually. It is painless, and most people with the condition do not notice the symptoms until the damage is severe. Closed-angle glaucoma is a type whereby the eye does not drain fluid as it should because the drainage angle is narrow.
Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma
Although most people with open-angle glaucoma do not experience symptoms, individuals have blind spots. Symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma include:
- Severe eye pain
- Sudden blurry vision
- Headache
- Halos around lights
- Vision loss
- Redness in the eye
Glaucoma Risk Factors
The risk factors of the condition include:
- Senior age
- Family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes
- Severe farsightedness or nearsightedness
- Having corneas that are thin at the center
- Thinning optical nerves
- High eye pressure
- Have eye injury
Treatment of Glaucoma
The damage caused by glaucoma is permanent, but treatment can help stop further damage. Treatment slows down additional vision loss. There following are different treatment methods available.
Eye Drop Medication
Eye drops can help lower eye pressure. It also helps fluid flow better, preventing aqueous humor buildup. However, seniors should be cautioned that some eye medication has potential side effects, including itchy sensations, red eyes, and blurry vision.
Laser Therapy
This form of therapy helps drain fluid from the eye. Laser therapy is used to make the drainage angle perform better. The ophthalmologist may perform trabeculoplasty for open-angle glaucoma or iridotomy for closed-angle glaucoma.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Surgery is another way an ophthalmologist uses to achieve better eye pressure control. It helps improve the drainage of aqueous humor.
Five Precautionary Tips Against Glaucoma
The following tips may help seniors manage and prevent glaucoma.
1. Go for a Regular Eye Examination
Glaucoma has no symptoms in its early phases. Thus, regular eye examinations are vital in identifying early warning signs.
2. Learn About Family History
Glaucoma may be genetic. Children are at increased risk of developing the condition when a parent has glaucoma.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
Seniors should be advised to take foods rich in leafy vegetables, whole grains, and fruits to improve overall health. A healthy diet will keep your eyes healthy.
4. Exercise
Being active will reduce eye pressure and keep blood flowing in the optical nerves. Exercises such as swimming, walking, and biking are great options for seniors to stay active. However, seniors should consult their doctor to determine which exercise suits them.
5. Wear Protective Eye Gear
When at work or while swimming, wear protective eyeglasses. Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes when out on a sunny day.
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