Glaucoma is a condition characterized by damage to the eye's optic nerve. It is linked to pressure buildup in the eyes and worsens over time. Glaucoma is usually genetic, and it often develops later in life. 

Most people who develop glaucoma do not experience pain or exhibit early symptoms. Regular eye exams can help detect and treat glaucoma to prevent long-term vision loss. Here is more information about glaucoma and why you should be tested immediately.

Understanding Glaucoma 

Intraocular pressure, or increased eye pressure, can damage the optic nerve that sends images to the brain. Worsening of the damage results in glaucoma that can lead to lasting vision loss. The condition can cause total blindness within years. 

Lost vision is irreversible, but lowering the pressure can save the remaining sight. The disease usually affects both eyes but is often worse in one eye. Following a treatment plan and regular eye exams can help protect the vision. 

What Causes Glaucoma?

The eye fluid known as aqueous humor exits the eye along a channel that resembles a mesh. If the eye produces too much fluid or the channel gets blocked, there is liquid buildup. It is unclear what causes the blockage, but the condition can be inherited. It is often passed on from parents to their children. 

An eye infection, blunt force eye injury, obstructed blood vessels, and inflammation can lead to glaucoma. In some rare cases, corrective eye surgery can lead to glaucoma. 

Risk Factors

Glaucoma usually affects individuals over 40 years old, but infants, children, and young adults can also get it. Risk factors include:

• Being of African, Irish, Hispanic, Russian, Scandinavian, or Japanese descent

• Being over 40 years old

• Having a history of the disease in the family

• Being nearsighted or farsighted

• Having diabetes, heightened blood pressure, sickle cell anemia, or heart disease

• Poor vision or high eye pressure

• Taking certain drugs or medications

• Experiencing an eye injury

• Having extremely thin corneas

Why You Should Be Tested Right Away

Testing is quick, painless, and crucial for detecting early signs of glaucoma. A screening exam can help diagnose the condition. Early diagnosis helps come up with effective, vision-saving treatment. 

You need immediate testing if you experience vision issues such as blurry vision, blind spots, eye pressure or pain, and red eyes. Other symptoms to look out for are headaches, tunnel vision, and rainbow circles around lights.

Glaucoma Tests

An ophthalmologist tests for glaucoma and can involve several tests. The tests are non-invasive, quick, and painless, allowing the specialist to see inside the eyes and assess vision loss. 

Tests include an eye angle exam, dilated eye exam, corneal thickness measurement, and eye pressure check. The specialist may conduct optic nerve imaging and a visual field test. The results are usually available immediately after testing. 

The doctor may recommend different glaucoma treatments to lower eye pressure. They include oral medications, prescription eye drops, laser surgery, or microsurgery. The type of glaucoma you have will determine the best treatment. 

Keeping your eyes healthy can help manage glaucoma. You can do this through regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, not smoking, and taking your medications as directed. 

For more information about glaucoma, call Vision One Eyecare Center in Kentucky in Ft. Mitchell (859) 267-1700 or Dry Ridge (859) 407-7400.