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Glaucoma is one of the worst conditions that can affect your sight because if it goes undetected without treatment, it results in possible vision loss. If it is detected early, you must manage it until your old age to preserve your sight. There is no known cure, and individuals with the condition must have regular eye exams to ensure the management strategies are working.

What Causes Glaucoma?

This series of conditions develop when the main nerve in the eye responsible for communicating with the brain, the optic nerve, becomes damaged. When the nerve deteriorates over time under the condition's impact, you start to notice changes in your vision, such as blind spots. 

The mystery of this condition that has baffled doctors and scientists lies in how nerve damage is related to high intraocular pressure. High eye pressure often results from the buildup of the intraocular fluid. 

Also known as aqueous humor, this fluid usually flows out through the point of meeting between the iris and the cornea, called the angle. If this angle, or trabecular meshwork, fails to work correctly, pressure in the eye builds up.

There are three main types of this condition:

• Open-angle glaucoma
• Angle-closure glaucoma
• Normal-tension glaucoma

Risk Factors 

This series of conditions usually damages your vision before you notice any symptoms, so you must be keen on the possible risk factors. These typically include the following:

• Elevated intraocular pressure

• Aged at least 55 and over are more likely to develop the condition

• Family history of the condition

• Hispanic, Asian, or Black heritage

• Corneal tissue that is much thinner at the center

• Certain medical conditions like diabetes

• Certain types of eye surgery or injury

• Extreme farsightedness or nearsightedness

• Prolonged use of corticosteroids, especially eye drops

How Can You Prevent Glaucoma?

Keep an Eye Out

If you have any of the risk factors above, you must have regular eye exams to check for the condition. When eye doctors detect this condition early, they can treat it, help you manage it better, and stop it from causing significant damage. 

Consult With Your Doctor If You Are Taking Steroid Medication

Steroid use over a long period or in high doses has been proven to raise eye pressure, especially if you are at risk of glaucoma. However, oral steroids or those you use as eye drops or around your eyes are more likely to raise your eye pressure. Talk to your ophthalmologist if you are using any steroids for recommendations on whether they are dangerous to your eye health. 

Diet and Exercise

Ensure your diet is rich in eye-healthy foods, as they are better at preventing the condition than vitamins. When doing exercises, avoid those that raise your heart rate too high, as they can also increase eye pressure. Regular exercises and brisk walks are advised.

For more on preventive care for glaucoma, visit Super Optical Express at our office in Gainesville, Florida. Call (352) 702-9700​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ to book an appointment today.