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According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, the number of people with glaucoma will increase by an estimated 58% by 2030. But what is glaucoma, who is at risk, and how can we defend against what some call the thief of sight?
What is Glaucoma?
The optic nerve is a bundle of nerves that transmits what you see to your brain. When fluid pressure inside the eye increases, it causes damage to that nerve—or glaucoma. This ailment is the second-leading cause of blindness after cataracts, but it is even more alarming that there aren’t often warning signs. Many people aren’t aware of it until they experience significant peripheral vision loss. Without proper treatment, this can lead to central vision loss (what you need to read and drive) or complete blindness.
Risks
- Being 60 or older.
- Are of Black, Asian or Hispanic descent and older than 40.
- Family history of glaucoma.
- Suffer from some medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, migraines, high blood pressure or sickle cell anemia.
- Used corticosteroids for a long time.
- Past eye issues, including retinal detachment, thin corneas, tumors, inflammation or other physical injuries and trauma. Severe nearsightedness or farsightedness can also be a factor.
Screenings
Glaucoma can’t be prevented entirely, but a doctor can help control it if diagnosed early. Screenings for eye disease allow your healthcare provider to measure corneal thickness, examine your retinas, measure fluid pressure and evaluate your overall vision. Your doctor may advise more frequent eye exams if you are at high risk for glaucoma, but the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends screenings:
- Under 40 – Every 5 to 10 years
- Ages 40 to 54 – Every 1 to 3 years
- Ages 55 to 64 – Every 1 to 2 years
- Ages 65 and older – Every 6 to 12 months
While this condition can affect people of all ages, it’s more common in people after age 40. However, risks increase substantially in our 70s and 80s.
Other Preventive Steps
- Exercise. A 2018 study found that increased walking and other moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were linked to lower rates of vision loss in glaucoma patients.
- Relax. Meditation and self-care lower stress hormones like cortisol, reducing eye pressure. A lower BMI also means less likelihood of diabetes, which can lead to glaucoma.
- Veg out. Another study claimed leafy vegetables lowered risks by up to 30% due to nitrates that regulate eye blood flow and pressure.
- Protection. Eye injuries can lead to glaucoma, so wear protective eyewear while playing sports, working in the yard, etc. Also, wear high-quality polarized sunglasses when outdoors to protect against harmful UV rays.
Regular check-ups with your primary physician can help you identify risk factors for vision conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. They also can refer you to an ophthalmologist for specialized care.
