Glaucoma is a devastating condition that is incredibly hard to detect (without regular eye examinations) and can damage sight beyond repair. Glaucoma related vision loss can be prevented, but it’s important to know that facts first. There’s a lot to talk about when it comes to glaucoma but to get you started here’s a few interesting facts!
- Glaucoma is the one of the biggest causes of blindness
In the U.S. alone there are over 3 million cases of glaucoma. The majority of this number seem to be over the age of 40, though only around 100,000 people are totally blind from it. Glaucoma also appears to be more prevalent in the African American population, although it is unclear as to why this is. Worldwide there is some 60 million people that suffer from this condition.
- There are multiple types of glaucoma
“Open-angle” is the type of glaucoma most people contract. This occurs when fluid inside the eye does not drain properly, which causes damage to the optic nerve from the pressure buildup. “Narrow-angle” glaucoma, is a form of the disease in which your iris blocks the draining system in your eye. This can be accompanied by severe and sudden symptoms in the form of an attack-unlike open-angle where there is absolutely no warning signs. Another example is “secondary” glaucoma, which is brought on from eye injuries and injuries.
Take a look at our 3D eye video library for a more visual learning experience of the different types of glaucoma.
- Although glaucoma is usually the product of high eye pressure, that’s not always the case.
Another form of glaucoma called “low-tension” glaucoma. The optic nerve is still damaged similar to other forms of glaucoma, but unlike those forms, eye pressure remains normal throughout the process. Not much is known as to why or how low-tension glaucoma occurs, and treatment options are limited.
- Not everyone who has high eye pressure has glaucoma.
Glaucoma stems from damage to the optic nerve. So if a person has high eye pressure, but the optic nerve remains untouched, that person’s vision will remain the same. Optic nerve strength is different in every person, so as long as the pressure does not surpass the person’s optic nerve resilience, their eyesight will still be healthy.
Glaucoma is impossible to detect on your own. Our offices all over the state of Kentucky contain licensed professionals that are ready to make sure you aren’t at risk, but the only way for them to help you is to set up an appointment. Don’t wait!