Whether you’re reading this blog during Glaucoma Awareness Month (January), or at any other point in the year, understanding this condition that impacts so many is important, especially if you or someone you love is experiencing it. Glaucoma affects an estimated 4 million Americans and is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness worldwide. In recognition of Glaucoma Awareness Month, let’s first explore some quick ways you can help raise awareness of Glaucoma:
- Learn About Glaucoma
- Know the Risk Factors
- Get an Eye Exam
- Talk to Others
- Volunteer in the Community
- Keep reading this Blog
Glaucoma: What is it?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that occurs when the eye does not drain fluid properly. If a blockage occurs, this will cause the IOP (intraocular pressure) to increase. If the pressure increases, it will push on the back of the retina and can damage the optic disc. The optic disc is where the optic nerve (comprised of millions of nerve fibers) connects to the retina and transmits information to the brain.
Glaucoma typically progresses very slowly and there are a variety of treatments. These include eye drop medications, laser treatments, and other surgeries.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
Glaucoma can affect people of all ages but there are some common factors for those at a higher risk. These include:
- Age: 60+
- Family history
- Elevated IOP
- Use of steroid medications
- Previous eye injury
- Ethnicity: African, Asian, or Hispanic populations
- Medical conditions (diabetes, high BP, sickle cell anemia, etc.)
The most common form of glaucoma, Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma, does not have uncomfortable or painful symptoms because the pressure builds up slowly. For the less common types of glaucoma there may be symptoms. These include:
- Hazy vision
- Eye and head pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- The appearance of rainbow-colored circles around bright lights
- Sudden vision loss
Call your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms listed above! Early detection can help protect from damage caused by glaucoma.
What does someone with glaucoma see?
While what people with glaucoma see is not a one-size-fits-all situation, the photos below represent the most common ways Glaucoma effects a person’s vision.
Now that we’ve reviewed what Glaucoma is and who is most commonly effects, let’s review the actions you can take:
- Schedule an Eye Exam – It is important to have your eyes checked regularly. You and your eye doctor can determine how frequently you should have eye exams based on your medical status.
- Talk with your Family and Friends – Let your support system know if you have glaucoma and what you experience. You can also spread the word about what symptoms to look out for and the importance of eye exams.
- Help the Community – Get involved with a local low vision organization like Future In Sight. Volunteering for and donating to low vision organizations and research are great ways to help.
If you or someone you love is experiencing vision loss and could benefit from our services, please contact Future In Sight at [email protected] or 603-224-4039 today!
About the Author: Jillian McCalvey, OTR/L, CLVT is an Occupational Therapist at Future In Sight.