Glaucoma: What's it?
Glaucoma refers to a variety of eye conditions that can cause vision loss. Glaucoma is the number one cause of blindness in the world, with more than 3,000,000 Americans suffering from it. Glaucoma, also known as "silent theft", is one of the most common causes of blindness worldwide. It usually doesn't manifest until severe vision loss has occurred.
Glaucoma's main risk factor is elevated intraocular pressure. This is due to an imbalance in fluid production within and out of the eyes. Although the exact reason for this imbalance remains unknown, there are many factors that could increase your risk such as age and family history.
Glaucoma: Common Causes
Glaucoma can be caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP). The increased intraocular pressure (IOP) is the most common cause of glaucoma. It results from an imbalance in the fluid production within and out the eyes. This can also be caused by genetic predispositions, trauma to eyes, Medications and medical conditions such as diabetes.
- Age: Glaucoma risk increases with age.
- Familial History: A family history of glaucoma can increase your risk.
- Race: African Americans have a greater risk of developing glaucoma that other races.
- Medication: Some medications (such as steroids) can raise the chance of developing glaucoma.
- Glaucoma is more common in people with high blood pressure or diabetes.
Glaucoma Treatments
Glaucoma treatment aims to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), and prevent or slow further vision loss. There are many treatment options available, including traditional and laser surgery as well as medications.
- Medicines: Glaucoma medications work by decreasing the fluid production or increasing drainage. You can either take these medications orally, or you may use them as drops.
- Laser Surgery is used for creating new drainage channels to drain fluid from the eyes. This procedure is very minimally invasive, and it has proven effective in certain cases.
- Conventional Surgery: Traditional surgery is the creation of new pathways to drain the fluid from the eyes. Although it is very effective, there are risks and complications.
Glaucoma Experts and Professionals' Opinions
Glaucoma can be detected early and treated promptly to prevent vision loss. Experts are unanimous in their recommendation. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that everyone above 40 years old undergo regular eye examinations. Your doctor will be able to detect any signs and symptoms of glaucoma. This is before permanent vision damage can occur. You should also be able to identify your risk factors, and speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Experts recommend regular comprehensive examinations for people who are at high risk of developing glaucoma. They also suggest additional testing such as tonometry and gonioscopy (OCT). The tests assess IOP to detect changes in the optic nerve which could indicate glaucoma.
Glaucoma Tips and Natural Remedies
There is no cure, but there are natural ways to reduce the symptoms and speed up the progress of glaucoma. You can avoid smoking and have a healthy diet. Studies have also shown that supplements such as bilberry or ginkgo biloba may reduce IOP and increase blood flow to the optic neuron.
- Healthy eating habits: A healthy diet that includes fruits and vegetables can reduce inflammation and help protect the eyes against damage.
- Regular exercise is important: It improves circulation and can reduce IOP.
- Do not smoke: Cigarette smoking increases your risk for glaucoma.
- Use herbs and supplements. Herbs such as bilberry or ginkgo biloba can help lower IOP and increase blood flow to the optic neuron.
Before you take any herbal or supplement, consult your doctor. They may interact with medications and cause side effects.
Conclusion
Glaucoma can cause vision loss and is serious. You need to be aware of your risks and have regular eye examinations. There are natural ways to reduce the symptoms and speed up the progress of this disease.
The article gave an overview on glaucoma including the causes and treatments as well as expert opinions. There are natural ways to reduce the symptoms and speed up the process of the disease. You can prevent glaucoma from developing by understanding your risks and getting regular eye examinations.