Understanding the threat posed by glaucoma is your first line of defense in maintaining your vision. In the United States alone, over three million people are living with this eye condition, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. However, only half of them actually know they have glaucoma. The good news is, you can protect your vision from glaucoma with early detection and treatment.
 

The Risk Factors for Glaucoma

 

To counter glaucoma effectively, it is essential to understand its risk factors. These are variables that increase your chance of developing the condition. For glaucoma, the primary risk factors include age, family history, race, and certain medical conditions. If you are above 60 years old, your risk of developing glaucoma increases. Similarly, if glaucoma runs in your family, you are more likely to develop it too.
 

Certain racial and ethnic groups, including people of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent, are at a higher risk. Medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart diseases can also increase your likelihood of developing glaucoma.
 

Seven Vital Steps to Safeguard Your Vision Against Glaucoma

 

Here are seven steps that can help protect your vision from glaucoma:
 

1. Understand Your Risk: As mentioned, certain factors increase your risk of developing glaucoma. Understanding these can help you take preventive measures.

2. Regular Eye Exams: Regular comprehensive eye exams can detect glaucoma in its early stages, before significant damage occurs.

3. Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can lower your eye pressure, reducing your risk for glaucoma.

4. Eat a Healthy Diet: Certain foods can improve eye health. By including these in your diet, you can help protect your vision.

5. Limit Caffeine: High caffeine intake can increase eye pressure. By limiting your caffeine consumption, you can reduce your risk.

6. Stay Hydrated: Drinking fluids slowly throughout the day can help maintain a stable eye pressure.

7. Use Prescribed Eye Drops: If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, it's vital to use your prescribed eye drops, even if you have no symptoms.

When to See an Ophthalmologist

 

Early detection and treatment of glaucoma are crucial to preventing irreversible vision loss. It is advisable to see an ophthalmologist for glaucoma screening if you are over the age of 40, have a family history of the condition, experience symptoms such as gradual loss of peripheral vision, eye pain, redness, blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights. 
 

 

Individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of eye injuries should also consider regular screenings. Since glaucoma can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred, regular comprehensive eye exams are essential, especially as you age or if you fall into high-risk categories. An ophthalmologist can conduct various diagnostic tests to detect glaucoma early and initiate treatment to manage the condition effectively.
 

 

Safeguarding Your Vision Against Glaucoma

 

Glaucoma may be a silent vision thief, but you have the power to safeguard your vision. By understanding your risk factors, taking preventive measures, and having regular eye checks, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing glaucoma or slow its progression.
 

Take the initiative, follow these seven steps to safeguard your eyesight, and enjoy clear, healthy vision for years to come. For more information on glaucoma, contact either of our  Eastside Eye Physicians office locartions in Shelby Township or St. Clair Shores, Michigan, Please call (586) 247-2020 or (586) 774-2020 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Joshua Apple, our glaucoma specialist, today.