The groups of conditions that result in optic nerve damage are referred to as glaucoma. This normally causes loss of vision. The loss is attributed to increased pressure within eyes. It is among the leading causes of blindness. This form of vision loss could be so gradual so that it remains unnoticed until it gets to more advanced stages. In considering treatment of glaucoma San Antonio residents should know various facts about the condition.
The most common type of this condition is open angle glaucoma which has no noticeable symptoms save for the fact that the vision will be lost gradually. The damage to the optic nerve may be prevented with timely diagnosis and treatment. This will also mean the vision loss is prevented. Eyes need to be examined regularly during which time the intraocular pressure is measured. The pressure is caused by build-up of aqueous humor which is the fluid flowing into and out of the eyes.
The various types of this condition have differing symptoms. For the open angle type, one will experience gradual loss of peripheral vision, normally in both eyes. In the more advanced stages, there will be tunnel vision. The acute closure type is characterized by eye pain, blurred vision, nausea, reddening of the eyes and halos around lights. Both conditions are referred to as primary when the cause is unknown and secondary when their cause may be traced to known causes.
Eye specialists recommend that individuals do not wait until there are noticeable problems before seeking medical intervention. For adults aged forty and above, there should be checkups once in every three to five years so that any risk factors are dealt with. This is not however the same for persons of over sixty years. This category of people will need screening every once in a year or two.
It is important to know the various risk factors. The internal eye pressure is among the most important. If in any case it increases beyond the expected level, one will be at higher risk of getting the disease. Not all people with elevated eye pressure will however contract glaucoma. Age will also be a determining factor. Those above 60 years, more so if they are Mexican-Americans, are at higher risk. Americans of African origin tend to develop the disease when they are younger.
Family history plays a major role because the disease has a genetic link. Thus if the disease runs within the family, one will be at a greater risk. Such people should go for regular checkups. Medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes also increase the risk of contraction.
Severe eye injuries may also bring about increased pressure of the eyes. Other conditions such as eye inflammation, eye tumors, lens dislocation and detachment of the retina also lead to increased risk of contraction. Some forms of eye surgeries are also risk factors. People that are farsighted or nearsighted also are at an increased risk.
Prevention will be important in dealing with glaucoma. Treatment of elevated eye pressure, wearing eye protection and eating healthy are some of the preventive measures. Wearing eye protection will prevent serious injuries. Healthy diets improve mental and physical health.
The most common type of this condition is open angle glaucoma which has no noticeable symptoms save for the fact that the vision will be lost gradually. The damage to the optic nerve may be prevented with timely diagnosis and treatment. This will also mean the vision loss is prevented. Eyes need to be examined regularly during which time the intraocular pressure is measured. The pressure is caused by build-up of aqueous humor which is the fluid flowing into and out of the eyes.
The various types of this condition have differing symptoms. For the open angle type, one will experience gradual loss of peripheral vision, normally in both eyes. In the more advanced stages, there will be tunnel vision. The acute closure type is characterized by eye pain, blurred vision, nausea, reddening of the eyes and halos around lights. Both conditions are referred to as primary when the cause is unknown and secondary when their cause may be traced to known causes.
Eye specialists recommend that individuals do not wait until there are noticeable problems before seeking medical intervention. For adults aged forty and above, there should be checkups once in every three to five years so that any risk factors are dealt with. This is not however the same for persons of over sixty years. This category of people will need screening every once in a year or two.
It is important to know the various risk factors. The internal eye pressure is among the most important. If in any case it increases beyond the expected level, one will be at higher risk of getting the disease. Not all people with elevated eye pressure will however contract glaucoma. Age will also be a determining factor. Those above 60 years, more so if they are Mexican-Americans, are at higher risk. Americans of African origin tend to develop the disease when they are younger.
Family history plays a major role because the disease has a genetic link. Thus if the disease runs within the family, one will be at a greater risk. Such people should go for regular checkups. Medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes also increase the risk of contraction.
Severe eye injuries may also bring about increased pressure of the eyes. Other conditions such as eye inflammation, eye tumors, lens dislocation and detachment of the retina also lead to increased risk of contraction. Some forms of eye surgeries are also risk factors. People that are farsighted or nearsighted also are at an increased risk.
Prevention will be important in dealing with glaucoma. Treatment of elevated eye pressure, wearing eye protection and eating healthy are some of the preventive measures. Wearing eye protection will prevent serious injuries. Healthy diets improve mental and physical health.
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