Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. At the latest Speaker Series discussion, A New Look: Hot Topics in Eye Health, Ophthalmologist Dr. Catherine Birt explained who is most at risk as well as available treatment options for glaucoma. She was one of several speakers to round out a panel looking at the bionic lens, injection regimens for retinal diseases and flashers and floaters.
Glaucoma is an irreversible, progressive and blinding disease of the optic nerve. It’s not a single disease, but rather a number of similar conditions with factors in common. Glaucoma is often referred to as the thief in the night, because it can affect vision before patients know there is a problem. That’s why being aware of the risk factors is so important. They include:
- elevated intraocular pressure (IOP)
- older age (15-20% of people over 80 will be affected)
- having a family history of glaucoma
- African heritage
- having diabetes
- being shortsighted (myopic)
There is another form of glaucoma called acute angle closure that does cause symptoms, including halos and rainbows around lights, blurred central vision, red eye, a dilated pupil, pain and nausea. If you are experiencing these symptoms, seek medical treatment right away.
Treatments for glaucoma depends on the type and severity, but generally include medications (drops), laser therapy and surgery. While treatment can’t restore lost vision, the goal is to preserve vision from getting any worse. Overall, about 1 in every 100 people will develop some form of glaucoma in their lifetime.
