Glaucoma – What It Is, How to Spot It, and Ways to Treat

Did you know that high eye pressure can steal your sight without any pain? Glaucoma is the silent thief that damages the optic nerve, often before you notice any change. Knowing the basics helps you act before vision loss becomes permanent.

How Glaucoma Affects Your Eyes

The optic nerve connects your eye to the brain. When fluid builds up inside the eye, pressure rises and squeezes the nerve fibers. Over time this pressure creates blind spots that can merge into larger vision loss. There are several types, but the most common is primary open‑angle glaucoma, which develops slowly and usually affects both eyes.

Risk factors are easy to track: age over 60, family history, African or Hispanic ancestry, thin corneas, and certain eye injuries or surgeries. Some medicines, like long‑term steroids, also raise pressure. If you fall into any of these groups, regular eye exams become vital.

Managing Glaucoma: Treatments and Lifestyle Tips

The first line of defense is medication. Eye‑drop solutions lower pressure by reducing fluid production or improving drainage. Most people need daily drops for life, so learning the correct technique—dropping the medicine without touching the eye—matters.

If drops aren’t enough, laser therapy or surgery can create a new drainage pathway. These procedures are quick and usually restore pressure control, but they still require follow‑up checks.

Beyond medical options, simple habits can support eye health. Exercise a few times a week improves blood flow to the optic nerve. A balanced diet rich in leafy greens, orange veggies, and omega‑3 fatty acids supplies antioxidants that protect eye cells.

Avoid smoking and keep blood pressure in check; both factors worsen glaucoma progression. If you wear contact lenses, keep them clean and replace them as recommended to prevent inflammation that could raise pressure.

Finally, schedule comprehensive eye exams at least once a year. An optometrist will measure your intraocular pressure, check the optic nerve, and update your treatment plan. Early detection is the only way to keep glaucoma from stealing sight.

Glaucoma may feel intimidating, but understanding what to look for and how to act can preserve your vision for years to come. Stay proactive, follow your doctor’s advice, and keep an eye on your eye health.