Glaucomas are one of the many slow, creeping effects of aging or spontaneity. As life expectancies increase each year, the upsurge in age-related conditions needs to be combated with swift counters. Specifically, Glaucoma can easily blind an individual, but if caught in its earliest stages it can be easily reversible and treated. So what exactly is it?
Glaucoma's, What are they?
Glaucoma results from damage to the optic nerve due to increased pressure in the eye (Intraocular Pressure). This pressure is because the liquid in the eye that is responsible for hydration, Aqueous humor, is not being properly drained. The draining angle is in charge of directing the Aqueous humor into nearby tissues to be reabsorbed back into the body.
Your eyes are equipped to prevent the development of high pressure (Unless it's genetic), but it can happen spontaneously, either as the iris obstructs the draining angle or with aging. The two types of Glaucoma are:
Angle Closure Glaucoma (Sudden Development or Chronic)
Open Angle Glaucoma (Chronic and Slow Development)
Closed Angle Glaucoma (Angle Closure)
A Closed Angle Glaucoma is when the drainage angle becomes obstructed by a large iris (the colored part of the eye in charge of controlling the amount of light entering your eye).
Common symptoms are:
Severe pain in eyes or forehead
Decreased or Blurred vision
Headaches
Nausea or vomiting
This can happen in all ages, but there is a higher risk if genetics play a part. It can be chronic or Acute Close-angle glaucoma. The sudden restriction to the accessibility of the draining angle can lead to Acute closed-angle glaucoma, and it can have a higher risk of blindness. The quick onset of symptoms related to Acute Closed-Angle Glaucomas are similar to one previous but develops rapidly, unlike Open Angle Galucomas.
Open Angle Glaucoma
An Open Angle Glaucoma happens over a period of time, and this is when the drainage angle becomes less efficient. This specific type of Glaucoma is age-related and not usually found until blind spots start to develop in your vision. The symptoms are similar to Close Angled Glacumoa's, except there is no pain until its later stages, and that is when swift action is required to prevent more damage.
And so, How do I prevent/treat this?
To properly treat and catch glaucoma in development, having regular eye exams with your ophthalmologist can do well in the long run. Glaucoma is a serious medical condition that can be stopped with proper medications and procedures. It is best for you to:
Have regular eye exams with your ophthalmologist
Have frequent doctor check-ups if you are at risk
Communicate well to create a treatment plan with your doctor
Simple eye drops or minimally evasive procedures can prevent further damage to your vision if treated swiftly. It is best to consult with your doctor to find the best route to treating Glaucoma, and to have an active role in your wellness.
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Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
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