Glaucoma Can Lead to Irreversible Vision Loss

Helpful Highlights

• Glaucoma comes in two types: open-angle and angle-closure. Angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency.

• It is most common in those aged 40 and older, and risk increases with age.

• Both can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.

• Your loved one should get tested for glaucoma during annual eye exams.

What it is

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions characterized by damage to the optic nerve, often associated with increased pressure inside the eye. This progressive optic nerve damage can lead to irreversible vision loss and, if left untreated, eventual blindness. There are two major categories of glaucoma, both with several variations:

• Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type, affecting 95% of individuals with glaucoma, where fluid drainage from the eye is impaired, causing pressure to build up.

• Angle-closure glaucoma, also known as closed-angle, narrow-angle, or acute glaucoma, is characterized by a sudden and complete blockage of fluid drainage, leading to a rapid increase in eye pressure. This emergency condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss.

How can I tell if my loved one has glaucoma?

Open-angle glaucoma usually has no symptoms in its early stages, earning it the nickname "the silent thief of sight." However, as the condition progresses, symptoms may become more apparent. These can include:

• blurred or hazy vision

• the development of blind spots in the peripheral vision

• eye pain

• headaches

• seeing halos around lights

In the case of closed-angle glaucoma, there may be sudden and severe symptoms such as intense eye pain, nausea, vomiting, and a noticeable decrease in vision.

Your loved one will need to tell you what they are experiencing, as there are no outwardly observable symptoms that you'll notice on your own.

What can I do for my loved one?

Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection, as symptoms may not be evident until significant vision loss has occurred. Early detection and management are essential in controlling glaucoma and preventing vision impairment.

If your loved one is diagnosed with glaucoma, here are the many ways you can help:

• Continue with regular eye exams and specialist appointments (ophthalmologist)!

• Medication management - Help them adhere to their prescribed eye drops and other medications for glaucoma, as well as those they take for other conditions.

• Encourage activity and exercise - Moderate activity benefits overall health; exercising 3 or more times per week can reduce eye pressure.

• Encourage protective eyewear - Make sure your loved one has sunglasses or transition lenses when spending time outside, and protective eyewear for tasks that can result in eye injury.

• Assist with daily activities - Offer assistance with daily activities that may become challenging due to vision impairment, such as reading, cooking, or navigating unfamiliar environments.

• Create a safe environment - Make necessary adjustments at home to create a safe and accessible environment. This may include proper lighting, reducing clutter, and installing handrails if needed.

• Educate yourself - Learn about glaucoma and its management to better understand the challenges your loved one may face. This knowledge can also help you provide informed support.

• Provide emotional support - Managing glaucoma can be taxing. Understand the emotional impact of vision loss and offer emotional support. Encourage your loved one to be open about their feelings and concerns.

• Accompany them to appointments - Accompany your loved one to all medical appointments to offer support and address all relevant questions.

Supporting a loved one with glaucoma involves various aspects of care and understanding. Remember that your loved one's experience with glaucoma is unique from anyone else, so maintaining open communication and adapting your support based on their specific needs is essential.