What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that affect the eye and lead to narrowing of the visual field gradually till the complete loss of vision. The pressure inside the eyes increases, Pressure itself is not a disease, but rather the major most important risk factor for Glaucoma development.
What Causes Glaucoma?
At the front of the eye, there is a small space called "anterior chamber" within which clear fluid flows in and out. In glaucoma, the fluid builds up raising the pressure inside the eye, thus causes damage to the optic nerve which carries the images we see to the brain. This damage causes gradual decrease in the visual field till complete loss of vision.
How often Should I get an Eye Examination to protect my vision?
Everyone should get an eye examination, however, the frequency of examination varies according to age and whether there is a higher risk of developing Glaucoma.
Risk Factors for Glaucoma include:
- African descendants are at higher risk
- Prolonged corticosteroid therapy
Therefore, the frequency of examination is recommended to be as follows:
Under 45 years:
- With risk factors: Every 2 years
- Without risk factor: Every 4 years
45 years & above:
- With risk factors: Every year
- Without risk factor: Every 2 years
Glaucoma is only diagnosed through a series of tests administered and interpreted by an opthalmologist (eye doctor), therefore a regular eye examination is the single most important tool in preventing vision loss.
Treatment of Glaucoma
Treatment focuses on lowering pressure inside the eye to a target level with regular eye examination.
If you were diagnosed with glaucoma, your doctor will set a treatment based upon your medical needs to minimize the effect and the risk of the disease.