March 7 to 13 is observed as World Glaucoma Week every year. It aims to spread awareness on this condition, which detrimentally impacts eye health. If left untreated, glaucoma can result in permanent blindness. In India, about 11 million people suffer from it and are among the primary causes of blindness. Hence, awareness about this ailment is crucial. One such aspect that can play a big role in bringing down the incidence rate of blindness due to glaucoma is knowing about its symptoms and seeking prompt treatment. Hence, to know the symptoms of glaucoma, and its other characteristics, Onlymyhealth spoke to Dr. Arvind Kumar, Consultant Ophthalmology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad.
Glaucoma Meaning & Symptoms
Dr. Kumar described glaucoma as a “chronic progressive degeneration of the optic nerve”. It is caused by excessive pressure inside the eye. Here are the glaucoma symptoms you should not ignore:
- Mild headache
- Blurring of vision
- Loss of field of vision
- Frequent change in power of glasses
If you experience any of these, do not lose time and consult an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. Also, glaucoma is more common during old age compared to other age groups. Hence, if you belong to this age group, go for regular eye health check-ups to be up-to-date about the state of your eye health.
Also read: Effective Tips To Live With Glaucoma
Glaucoma Risk Factors
(Photo Credit: Unsplash)
When it comes to glaucoma, some people are at a greater risk of this condition than the rest. Hence, risk factors for glaucoma include:
- Hereditary: Glaucoma runs in families. Hence, if someone in your family has suffered from it, it means you are at an increased risk of it.
- Eye Conditions: Vision-related issues such as myopia and hypermetropia also increase a person’s risk of glaucoma.
- Smoking is another risk factor for glaucoma.
Other than these, old adults are at a greater risk of glaucoma than the rest.
Glaucoma Treatment
(Photo Credit: Unsplash)
If left untreated, glaucoma can result in complete blindness, said Dr. Kumar. Hence, if you experience any symptoms, consult your doctor as soon as possible. When it comes to the treatment for glaucoma, it depends on the advancement of the ailment. Short-term treatment for glaucoma involves:
- Topical medication
- Oral medication
In case the condition has advanced, then surgery might be done. Laser is another mode of treatment at this stage.
As surgery can be tricky, you must take proper care of your eyes post that. According to Dr. Kumar, no special precautions are required. However, you must prevent any trauma to your eyes, especially after the surgery. Another thing that must be noted about glaucoma is that it can come back. Hence, you must adhere to your doctor’s treatment completely and follow his/her advice perfectly.
Also read: 8 Simple Natural Remedies To Prevent Glaucoma
There is no way you can prevent glaucoma, said Dr. Kumar. Hence, if you are at risk, going for regular eye health check-ups can help. Also, if you experience any symptoms, consult your doctor as soon as possible. An early diagnosis and prompt treatment are the only ways to deal with glaucoma, said Dr. Kumar.
(With inputs from Dr. Arvind Kumar, Consultant Ophthalmology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad)
Photo Credit: Freepik
