By Reu’el McAllister Singh (HST
Communications Intern)
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide,
including in South Africa. Regrettably, many individuals remain unaware of
their condition until they experience vision impairment. This progressive
disease develops silently, without noticeable symptoms, affecting approximately
80 million people globally.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that cause a build-up of pressure
in the eye, which can ultimately damage the optic nerve, leading to permanent
vision loss or blindness. While it can develop for various reasons, many cases
can be managed with treatment. Staying informed about the risk factors and
having routine eye check-ups can help safeguard your vision.
Types of Glaucoma
Various forms of glaucoma exist, which can generally be
classified into several distinct categories:
- Open-Angle Glaucoma: This represents the most prevalent type. The drainage angle between the iris and cornea remains open, but
the drainage system doesn’t work properly, causing fluid build-up and
increasing eye pressure over time.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: In this type, the iris blocks the drainage area, causing a sudden
rise in eye pressure. This can lead to severe pain, blurred vision, and
requires immediate medical attention.
- Secondary Glaucoma: This
occurs when another condition, such as an eye injury or certain medications,
increases the eye pressure, leading to glaucoma. Conditions like diabetes
or inflammation in the eye can also cause secondary glaucoma.
- Congenital Glaucoma: A
rare form of Glaucoma that babies are born with due to abnormal
development in the eye’s drainage system during pregnancy. Early treatment
is crucial to prevent permanent vision damage.
Recognising Symptoms and Risk Factors
What to Look Out for:
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision is often the first sign.
- Blurred or hazy vision.
- Eye pain or pressure.
- Frequent headaches, particularly around the eyes.
- Sudden vision loss (a symptom of angle-closure glaucoma requiring
immediate medical attention).
- Seeing rainbow-colored halos around lights, particularly when accompanied
by nausea or vomiting.
Key
Risk Factors to Consider:
- Being over 40, with
risk increasing over the age of 60.
- A family history of
glaucoma.
- Higher prevalence
in people of African or Asian descent.
- Elevated eye
pressure.
- Medical conditions
such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
- Eye injuries or
surgeries.
- Long-term use of
steroid medications.
Recognising these symptoms and understanding the risk
factors are crucial steps toward early diagnosis and treatment. Regular eye
exams are key, even if you don’t experience symptoms.
The Importance of
Early Detection and Treatment for Glaucoma
Early detection through routine eye examinations are essential, as
it helps identify the condition in its earliest stages before irreversible
damage occurs. Comprehensive eye examinations can measure eye pressure, assess
the optic nerve, and track changes in the visual field, all key factors in
diagnosing glaucoma early.
Although the damage from glaucoma cannot be reversed, early
diagnosis allows for treatment to slow or prevent further vision loss, helping
people maintain their quality of life. Treatment typically focuses on lowering eye
pressure to protect the optic nerve, with options including medicated eye
drops, oral medications, laser therapy, and, in some cases, surgery. Lifestyle
changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing
underlying health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, can also
help manage the condition effectively.
Resources and
Support
The South African
Glaucoma Society (SAGS) is
dedicated to providing essential information and support to individuals
affected by glaucoma. Additionally,
SAGS collaborates with international glaucoma organisations, such as the World Glaucoma Association (WGA) and The International Agency for the Prevention of
Blindness (IAPB), to raise
awareness and promote research aimed at preventing vision loss.
Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of
sight" because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until
significant damage has occurred. Early detection through regular eye exams is
crucial in preventing irreversible vision loss. Being proactive about eye
health, individuals can take the necessary steps to protect their vision and
maintain quality of life.
For information on glaucoma or assistance, please visit:
E: webmaster@dipity.co.za
E:
info@worldglaucoma.org