Who Is at Risk of Glaucoma & How to Protect Your Vision

Dr.Vidya Chaudhry, 3 mins read

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can slowly damage our eyesight. It is the most common cause of untreatable blindness not only in India, but across the world. It is often called the “silent thief of vision” because it is next to impossible to detect it by ourself in the early stages. If not detected and treated on time, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness. Any vision loss due to glaucoma cannot be regained.

So, understanding of the risk factors of glaucoma and how to protect our eyes is the first step toward saving our vision.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage usually happens due to high pressure inside the eye, but glaucoma can also occur even when eye pressure is normal. Since the vision loss caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed, early detection is very important.

Risk Factors for Glaucoma:

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but some people have a higher risk than others. Knowing these risk factors can help you take timely action.

1. People Above 40 Years of Age: The risk of glaucoma increases with age. People over 40 should get regular eye check-ups, even if they do not have any vision problems.
2. Family History of Glaucoma: If someone in your family such as a parent or sibling has glaucoma, your chances of developing it are higher. Regular screening is essential in such cases.
3. People with Diabetes: Diabetes can damage blood vessels, including those in the eyes. Diabetic patients are more likely to develop glaucoma and should have regular eye examinations.
4. High Eye Pressure: Increased pressure inside the eye is one of the main risk factors. Many people do not feel this pressure, so routine eye tests are important.
5. Long-Term Use of Steroids: Using steroid eye drops, tablets, or inhalers for a long time can increase eye pressure and raise the risk of glaucoma.
6. People with Other Eye Problems: Conditions like severe nearsightedness (myopia), eye injuries, or previous eye surgeries can also increase the risk.

Common Symptoms of Glaucoma

In the early stages, glaucoma usually has no warning signs. As the disease progresses, some people may notice:

• Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision
• Blurred vision
• Eye pain or headache (in some types of glaucoma)
• Seeing halos around lights

How Can You Protect Your Vision?

Although glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be controlled if detected early. Here are some important steps to protect your eyesight:

1. Get Regular Eye Check-Ups: Routine eye exams are the most effective way to detect glaucoma early. People over 40, diabetics, and those with a family history should have regular screenings.
2. Control Diabetes and Blood Pressure: Managing blood sugar and blood pressure helps protect the optic nerve and overall eye health.
3. Use Medications as Prescribed: If diagnosed with glaucoma, use eye drops or medications exactly as advised by your doctor. Skipping doses can worsen the condition.
4. Avoid Self-Medication with Steroids: Never use steroid eye drops without medical advice. Always consult an eye specialist before long-term use.
5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking can improve blood flow to the eyes and support optic nerve health.

Why Early Detection is Important?

Vision loss from glaucoma is permanent but early treatment can slow or stop further damage. Many people with glaucoma live normal lives with good vision when the condition is diagnosed early and managed properly.

Takeaway!

Glaucoma can affect anyone, but awareness and timely eye check-ups can make a big difference. If you are over 40 or have comorbities like diabetes, hypertension or high cholesterol, or a family history of glaucoma, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Protect your vision today by getting a comprehensive eye examination at Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka, Sector-3.