What is Glaucoma and Are You at Risk?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by optic nerve damage, which can lead to irreversible loss of vision.

There are several types of glaucoma, each of which presents problems with vision in different ways:

• Open-angle glaucoma
• Angle-closure glaucoma
• Normal-tension glaucoma
• Congenital or pediatric glaucoma
• Pigmentary glaucoma

According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, this group of eye diseases is among the leading causes of blindness worldwide—and while approximately 3 million Americans have glaucoma, experts estimate that only half of them are aware of it. One reason why is because open-angle glaucoma (the most common form of this disease) often presents none of the standard symptoms such as eye pain or noticeable pressure.

Because so many people can have glaucoma without knowing it, and because it is a degenerative disease with no cure, it is essential to get tested for it.

Anyone can get glaucoma at some point in their lives. However, these groups are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, according to data pulled by the Glaucoma Research Foundation:

• People over the age of 60 (particularly Hispanic people in this age group)
• People with a family history of glaucoma
• African Americans
• Asians
• People with a history of steroid usage
• People with a history of eye injury

As the American Academy of Ophthalmology explains, a complete eye exam is necessary to diagnose glaucoma.

During this exam, your ophthalmologist must:

• Check your eye pressure and eye drainage angle
• Measure your optic nerve and investigate potential damage
• Identify the quality of your peripheral (side) vision
• Measure your cornea’s thickness

Again, it is essential to get tested for glaucoma in its early stages to help slow and/or prevent further vision loss. The Mayo Clinic outlines the following complete eye exam schedules based on your age group:

• Under 40 years old: every five to 10 years
• 40 to 54 years old: every two to four years
• 55 to 64 years old: every one to three years
• Over 65 years old: every one to two years

However, they also note that people with a family history of glaucoma may require more frequent screening. If you have any of the additional risk factors outlined above, you may also wish to consult your Heal physician and/or eye doctor to see if earlier or more frequent screening is appropriate for you.

If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, treatment options include using glaucoma eye drops and/or getting laser surgery to help slow down further damage.

Finally, in addition to getting your routine complete eye exams and sticking to your doctor’s glaucoma treatment plan, there are several ways in which you can promote good eye health at any age.

Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.