Glaucoma Risk Factors: Who’s at Risk and How to Protect Your Vision

Glaucoma, a prevalent eye condition, is a complex disease that primarily affects the optic nerve, the vital link between the eye and the brain. It's often associated with elevated intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss or even blindness. Often, it shows no early symptoms, and the loss of sight is gradual. Although anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase the risk. Understanding these factors is key to protecting your vision.

Understanding Glaucoma

There are two main types of glaucoma: primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and angle-closure glaucoma (ACG). POAG is the most common form of glaucoma, characterised by an increase in intraocular pressure due to a slow clogging of the drainage canals. ACG, on the other hand, is a less common form where the drainage canals are blocked or closed off, causing an abrupt rise in intraocular pressure.

The challenge with glaucoma is that once vision is lost, it can't be regained. This makes early detection through regular eye exams and immediate treatment critical.

 

Who is at risk?

The first step in protecting your vision is understanding who is at high risk for glaucoma. While this eye disease can affect anyone, some groups are more susceptible than others. Age is a significant factor; individuals over 60 are at a higher risk. If you're of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent, your risk is also greater.

Family history plays a role too. If you have a sibling or parent with glaucoma, your risk of developing the disease is considerably higher. Additionally, individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure, or who have suffered an eye injury, are more susceptible to glaucoma.

Finally, those with severe nearsightedness or regular, long-term corticosteroid use, especially eyedrops, are also in the high-risk category. Recognizing these risk factors is the first step towards proactive eye health management.

 

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams in Glaucoma Detection

Regular eye exams are crucial for the early detection of glaucoma. Since the disease often shows no early symptoms, only a comprehensive eye exam can reveal the subtle changes that hint at glaucoma. These changes can be detected before vision loss begins, giving you the best chance at preserving your sight.

During an eye exam, the doctor will measure your intraocular pressure, inspect your eye's drainage angle, evaluate your optic nerve for damage, and test your peripheral vision. If glaucoma is suspected, further tests may be ordered. These tests can include a visual field test to map your complete field of vision and an optical coherence tomography (OCT) to measure the thickness of your nerve fiber layer.

 

How to Protect Your Vision

Regular eye exams are especially important for those in high-risk groups. If you fall into this category, ensure that you have comprehensive eye exams at least once every one to two years. Early detection and treatment can significantly slow the progression of glaucoma.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can also help. Regular exercise can reduce intraocular pressure and improve blood flow to the optic nerve and retina. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to overall eye health.

 

Taking Charge of Your Eye Health

Early detection is the key. Don't wait for symptoms to appear. If you're in a high-risk group, schedule regular eye exams. A proactive approach to eye health can help detect issues early, making treatment more effective and preserving your vision.

To learn more about glaucoma risk factors and how to protect your vision, visit Eyecare Center of Wethersfield at our office in Wethersfield, Connecticut. Call (860) 905-0086 to schedule an appointment today.