Around 80 million people around the world have glaucoma. Interestingly, around half of the individuals with this eye problem aren’t even aware of it. This condition often shows no symptoms in its initial stages. It’s frequently called “sneak of the sight” because when not detected and treated early, it can cause irreversible vision loss.
Learn if glaucoma is preventable from your local orthokeratology specialist.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve or the nerve in the back of the eye. Its symptoms are usually not noticeable in its early stages. People often only notice changes in their vision once the condition has progressed. The only way to confirm if you have glaucoma is to get a comprehensive eye exam. While it has no cure, early treatment can help preserve your sight.
Who Are at Risk?
You can get glaucoma, regardless of your ethnicity and age. However, it’s more common in people over 60, African Americans over 60, and those with a family history of glaucoma. If you are at high risk of this eye condition, you might need to see your eye exam doctor every one to two years.
Is It Preventable?
While glaucoma isn’t preventable, it can be caught early through regular eye exams. Early detection and treatment go a long way in preventing significant or permanent vision loss. Eating nourishing meals has also been proven to be beneficial to eye health. Include leafy greens, colored fruits, berries and vegetables in your diet.
Regular exercise can lower eye pressure, which is helpful for people with glaucoma. Even low-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, is ideal for glaucoma patients. Quitting smoking and wearing UV-blocking sunglasses are other ways to protect your eyes from the effects of this vision-threatening eye condition.
If you experience sudden vision changes, don’t wait long to schedule an eye exam. At Lumen Optometric, we provide more than prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. We also specialize in myopia management and orthokeratology. Call us at (626) 921-0199 or complete our online form to request an appointment.