Protecting Your Vision for Life

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can develop without noticeable symptoms until permanent vision loss has occurred. On World Glaucoma Day, we at Sparkport Pharmacy want to raise awareness about this condition and emphasize the importance of early detection.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, typically due to increased pressure within the eye. This damage is irreversible and can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. There are several types of glaucoma, with open-angle glaucoma being the most common form.

 

Most Common Types of Glaucoma:

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

This is by far the most common form, accounting for approximately 90% of all glaucoma cases worldwide. It develops slowly and painlessly as the eye’s drainage canals gradually become clogged over time, increasing intraocular pressure. Most people don’t experience symptoms until significant peripheral vision loss has already occurred, which is why it’s often detected only during routine eye exams.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

The second most common type, angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the iris blocks the drainage angle in the eye. The acute form is considered a medical emergency and causes sudden symptoms like severe eye pain, headaches, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights. Chronic angle-closure glaucoma develops more gradually with fewer symptoms. This type is more prevalent in people with farsightedness.

Normal-Tension Glaucoma

A significant variant where the optic nerve becomes damaged despite normal eye pressure readings. People with Japanese ancestry, a history of systemic heart disease, and women are at higher risk for this form.

 

Risk Factors for Developing Glaucoma

While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase your risk:

  • Being over 60 years old
  • Family history of glaucoma
  • African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
  • High eye pressure
  • Certain medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension
  • Previous eye injuries or surgeries
  • Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
  • Thin corneas

Prevention and Management

While not all cases of glaucoma can be prevented, these steps can help protect your vision:

  1. Regular Eye Exams: The most effective way to detect glaucoma early is through comprehensive eye examinations. These should include tests for eye pressure, visual field testing, and examination of the optic nerve.
  2. Know Your Family History: Understanding your family’s eye health history can help determine if you’re at higher risk.
  3. Protect Your Eyes: Wear protective eyewear during activities that could injure your eyes.
  4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, and avoiding smoking can support overall eye health.
  5. Manage Existing Health Conditions: Properly controlling conditions like diabetes and hypertension helps reduce your risk.
  6. Take Prescribed Medications Correctly: If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, using your eye drops as prescribed is crucial for preventing vision loss.

The Importance of Regular Eye Testing

Most people with early-stage glaucoma don’t experience symptoms, which is why regular eye examinations are vital. By the time symptoms like peripheral vision loss become noticeable, permanent damage may have already occurred.

At Sparkport Pharmacy, we recommend:

  • Adults under 40: Eye exam every 3-5 years
  • Adults 40-54: Eye exam every 1-3 years
  • Adults 55-64: Eye exam every 1-2 years
  • Adults 65 and older: Annual eye exam
  • People with high risk factors: More frequent testing as advised by your eye care professional

 

Our Commitment to Your Eye Health

Sparkport Pharmacy is dedicated to supporting your eye health journey. We can help you:

  • Find local optometrists for comprehensive eye exams
  • Provide information about glaucoma medications and their proper use
  • Offer advice on eye health supplements
  • Answer questions about your eye health concerns

This World Glaucoma Day, take the first step toward protecting your vision. Schedule an eye examination, especially if it’s been more than two years since your last one or if you have risk factors for glaucoma.

Remember: vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, but early detection and treatment can preserve your sight for years to come.