National Glaucoma Awareness Month: Recognizing the Signs
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness for people over the age of 60. That’s why early detection is so important. Signs of glaucoma are not always apparent, but fortunately, comprehensive eye exams for older adults can help detect eye diseases and conditions.
Diagnosing and Treating Glaucoma in Your Senior Loved One
January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. It’s the perfect time to learn more about the eye disease. If your senior loved one experiences vision issues, pay close attention to their symptoms and ensure they visit an ophthalmologist regularly. They could be developing one of the two main varieties of glaucoma.
Open Angle Glaucoma
Open-angle is by far the most common variety of the disease and is caused by a clog or too much fluid production in your eye. Many people in the early stages of open-angle glaucoma do not exhibit symptoms. As the disease progresses, blind spots develop in the person’s peripheral vision.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Also known as closed-angle glaucoma or narrow-angle glaucoma, this type occurs when the person’s iris is close to the drainage angle in the eye. This can result in the iris blocking the drainage angle, causing the individual’s eye pressure to rise immediately. An angle-closure glaucoma attack is a true emergency that can cause blindness and should be dealt with immediately.
Here are a few identifying signs of an angle-closure glaucoma attack:
- Early on in an attack, headaches, halos, and blurred vision can occur
- Redness in the eye
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Severe pain in the eye or forehead
Who is at Risk of Developing Glaucoma?
Certain groups of people are more likely to develop the eye disease, including those who:
- Are over the age of 40
- Have relatives with glaucoma
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, migraines, and other blood circulation issues
- Are African, Hispanic, or Asian
- Are far-sighted or near-sighted
Treatment for Glaucoma
Unfortunately, the damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible. However, medications and laser surgeries, including trabeculoplasty and iridotomy, can help lower eye pressure and control the symptoms of the disease.
Visiting Angels Rockford Can Help Seniors with Glaucoma
We understand how difficult it can be to care for senior loved ones, and how much you want to be there for them. That's why Visiting Angels Rockford is here to help, providing the compassionate support your loved ones need to thrive. Our experienced and friendly caregivers are happy to transport your family member to appointments for regular dilated eye exams and provide essential services. If your loved one has been diagnosed with glaucoma, they will ensure the individual is taking proper care of their eyesight and following their physician’s instructions.
If you would like to learn more about our non-medical, in-home care services, reach out to one of our care coordinators today. You can contact Visiting Angels Rockford via our online form or by calling 815-977-3452. We look forward to hearing from you!