Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the United States, affecting nearly 3 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many forms of glaucoma have little to no symptoms in the early stages, meaning many individuals live without knowing. As part of National Glaucoma Awareness Month this January, professionals urge aging adults to learn more about the condition and to take preventive measures to reduce their risk of long-term complications.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that affect the optic nerve, which is the part of the eye that sends visual information to the brain. Glaucoma develops when increased pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve, leading to blind spots and vision changes.
There are two primary types of glaucoma; open-angle and acute angle-closure.
- Open-angle glaucoma
is the most common form of glaucoma. It presents no symptoms during the early stages of the condition. As the disease progresses, people may experience blind spots in peripheral vision. Later stages of open-angle may also cause changes to the central vision. - Acute angle-closure glaucoma
causes blurred vision or causes individuals to see halos of light. It also may lead to severe headaches, eye pain, nausea, and redness of the eye.
People can develop glaucoma when eye pressure is normal. Doctors are still unsure how the optic nerve gets damaged in normal-tension glaucoma, but it’s thought to have less blood flow that may cause a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries. Normal-tension glaucoma has similar symptoms to open-angle glaucoma, with gradually blurred vision and the eventual loss of peripherals.
Can you prevent glaucoma?
It’s challenging to prevent glaucoma, but understanding the risk factors and symptoms can help you and your doctors detect it early. Glaucoma is in adults after the age of 55 who have a family history of glaucoma. It’s also more common in individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, sickle cell anemia, and migraines. Having had an eye injury or eye surgery may also increase your risk.
If you’re at risk for glaucoma, make sure you’re getting regular comprehensive eye exams to detect any early symptoms or damage. Also, ensure you’re protecting your eyes with proper eyewear whenever using power tools or partaking in an activity that may lead to an eye injury.
How do doctors treat glaucoma?
Unfortunately, damage from glaucoma is permanent, but proper treatment from your doctor can slow or prevent further complications. Treatment options depend on the type of glaucoma, the stage, and the symptoms but typically include a combination of eye drops, medications, and therapies. In some cases, you may have to undergo surgery to help reduce some of the eye pressure.
How Visiting Angels can help
If you’re an older adult living with glaucoma or another condition affecting your vision, the team at Visiting Angels can provide non-medical services to help you age safely and comfortably at home. Our team of professional caregivers can help with light housekeeping, meal preparations, medication reminders, personal grooming, mobility assistance, and more.
Our Prince William County office works with seniors in Prince William and Western Fairfax counties, including Fort Belvoir and Lorton. If you’d like to learn more about our services or schedule a complimentary consultation, send us a message or call 703-530-8811.