Studies reveal that glaucoma is likely to double up by 2040. Recently Dr. Agarwal's Eye Hospital has conducted various awareness programs regarding Glaucoma. They also help conduct programs on the risk factors of the disorder and promote maximum screening in and around India. In India, many people do not have access to specialized hospitals for eye checkups. Unequal distribution of eye care and lack of infrastructure in the country are the main causes of dysfunction.
India needs advancement in various areas to enhance the reach of medical interventions and screening. As risk factors of glaucoma lies with the prevalence of chronic conditions like high blood pressure, myopia, diabetes, and sometimes family history too. And there are a few things one should know about this eye disease called “Glaucoma” but, before let’s find out what is glaucoma.
Glaucoma is a condition of the eye that damages the optic nerve and it gets worse with time. The condition is often related to the pressure inside the eye. The increased pressure in the eye is known as intraocular pressure could damage the optic nerve which sends images to the brain. And if the damage worsens, glaucoma could cause permanent vision loss or it could even lead to total blindness in the next few years.
1. When one has a good vision they don't have to worry about glaucoma
Large number of people have good vision and they think that they do not have to worry about glaucoma, which is not the case every time. Various types of glaucoma will not have any symptoms and will also have 6/6 even the person is growing old. This phenomenon is also known as “Silent Thief of Sight”. Hence, one could lose their vision suddenly and then discover that they have glaucoma which is one of the long-term outcomes.
2. Only elderly people get affected with glaucoma
Glaucoma is higher among the elderly people who are above 50 years of age but it can affect anybody of any age even newborns. And it is very important to go for a regular examination when one young and even though did not have any eye problems related to glaucoma. This is advised because vision loss due to glaucoma cannot be reversed hence, early detection is very important.
3. One can be diagnosed with glaucoma only if one has high intraocular pressure.
Most people with glaucoma do have high intraocular pressure or high fluid pressure in their eyes. Many patients might never have increased blood pressure and yet have a serious type of glaucoma which is known as normal-tension glaucoma. And on the other hand, few people with high intraocular pressure might not have glaucoma at all which is also called ocular hypertension.
4. When no one in the family is affected with glaucoma there are fewer chances of having it.
One might not have the disease run in the family but, still when diagnosed properly might have the symptoms of having the disease. Hence, it is a prominent risk factor. But it is always advised to be in regular check-ups in regular intervals.
5. As there is no cure for Glaucoma, one doesn't have to take any treatment
When someone loses their vision due to glaucoma, the vision cannot be reversed. But, glaucoma is a progressive disease and with constant monitoring and therapy, it could be controlled. Hence, it is important to be in proper treatment from a glaucoma specialist and not just a common eye doctor.
So, that was how to manage glaucoma and bursts the popular myths about it. And it is high time to raise the awareness of glaucoma treatments and fill in the gaps in people's minds with relevant information on the condition. Most of you might be wondering how to contribute to this.
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