Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve (the bundle of nerve fibers that transmits information from the eye to the brain), resulting in vision loss and possibly blindness. Optic nerve damage is most commonly associated with high eye pressure; however, it can occur with normal or even lower than normal eye pressure.

People with a family history of glaucoma, high blood pressure, or high blood sugar levels may be at a higher risk of developing the disease. Adjusting to life with glaucoma can be difficult, as it is with any illness or medical condition. Glaucoma, on the other hand, does not have to take over your life. As with any medical diagnosis, if you get diagnosed with glaucoma, it may raise several concerns.

In this article, you will get answers you seek to questions in your mind regarding glaucoma and your overall eyesight.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a broad term that encompasses a range of eye disorders that cause damage to the optic nerve. It is the most common type of optic nerve damage that results in vision loss. In most cases, fluid accumulates in the front of the eye. This extra fluid puts pressure on the eyes, gradually causing optic nerve damage. It is known as intraocular pressure (IOP), also known as eye pressure. Some people with normal eye pressure develop glaucoma. Glaucoma can cause severe and lasting loss of vision and blindness if left unchecked or poorly controlled.

Glaucoma is a common age-related eye condition. It is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, after cataracts. Glaucoma can affect people of all races and genders, but the risk increases as one get older. African Americans and Latinos are much more likely than other races to develop glaucoma, and they catch the disease at a younger age. Asian and Inuit populations are also predisposed to a type of glaucoma known as angle-closure glaucoma. People who have diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma.

Now let’s get to the questions you may have on glaucoma and get some answers to them.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) About Glaucoma

You will have achieved your goal when you recognize that the more people are aware of glaucoma, the better equipped they will be to find treatment for this condition. As a result, with the answers to frequently asked questions provided below, you can find the assistance you require to preserve your vision.