Fourni par Blogger.

By Enid Hinton


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.

There are different symptoms of the various types of glaucoma. For instance, the open angle version is characterized by gradual loss of peripheral vision, usually in both eyes. Tunnel vision results in the more advanced stages. In acute closure glaucoma, there will be eye pain, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision and reddening of the eyes. The condition is described as primary when its causes are unknown and secondary when the cause may be traced to known causes.

This condition is prevalent because most people will always wait until they experience noticeable symptoms. Going for regular checkups will always be key to detecting any symptoms in time. People aged forty years and above need checkups every once in three or five years to detect any risk factors. People with risk factors and are over 60 years should be screened once in every one or two years.

There are various risk factors that one ought to be aware of. The first and maybe most important is the internal eye pressure. If it is higher than normal, there will be increased risk of contracting the condition. However, not everyone with elevated internal eye pressure contracts the disease. Age is another crucial factor. Those older than sixty are at a higher risk, especially if they are Mexican-American. African-Americans are likely to develop the disease at a younger age.

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.




About the Author: