Glaucoma as one of the fastest leading causes of blindness in people above the age of 60, is an eye condition that damages the optic nerve - a nerve that transmits signals from the retina to the brain. This damage occurs when there is an increased level of pressure in the eye; a condition known as OCULA HYPERTENSION.
Note that Glaucoma can still occur even when the pressure in the is normal. That is why a regular visit to an optometrist or ophthalmologist is advisable. Glaucoma, if untreated or undetected, can lead to a total loss of vision. It is not curable but it can be managed or controlled with pills, eye drops, laser procedures and surgery.
Note that vision lost through Glaucoma cannot be restored. It is said that people who have a family history of Glaucoma, people with diabetes, people on long-term steroid medication, people who have had an eye injury or are short-sighted, people who are above age 40 and people who have pigment dispersion syndrome are susceptible to Glaucoma. Psychophysiological stress can also build up pressure in the eye.
Usually, you might not notice any signs of Glaucoma at the early stage. It progresses slowly with no noticeable red flag. According to Glaucoma Research Foundation in San Francisco - "Most people who have open-angle Glaucoma feel fine and do not notice a change in their vision at first because the initial loss of vision is of side or peripheral vision, and the visual acuity or sharpness of vision is maintained until late in the disease. By the time a patient is aware of vision loss, the disease is usually quite advanced. Vision loss from Glaucoma is not reversible with treatment, even with surgery. This is because open-angle Glaucoma has few warning signs or symbols before damage has occurred, it is important to see a doctor for regular eye examinations. If Glaucoma is detected during an eye exam, your eye doctor can prescribe a preventative treatment to help protect your vision."
To prevent Glaucoma, regular intake of balance diet and regular exercise has been prescribed. Avoid smoking and keep a healthy weight. Limit your intake of caffeine, avoid too much exposure to sunlight. If it is unavoidable, use sunglasses and hats. Go for regular eye examination and maintain a normal blood pressure. "Be healthwise"
