Glaucoma living in adults

Overview

Glaucoma is an eye condition that damages the optic nerve, the cable that sends visual information from your eye to your brain. This damage is often linked to high pressure inside the eye. If not treated, it can lead to permanent vision loss.

Glaucoma is quite common, especially after age 60. It affects about 1 in 10 people over 75.

Glaucoma can affect anyone, but it is more common in people over 60, those of African or Caribbean descent, and those with a family history of glaucoma.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision, often in both eyes
• Tunnel vision in advanced stages
• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Seeing halos around lights
• Eye redness or discomfort (more common in certain types)

Symptoms in children

• Glaucoma in children is rare. Symptoms may include a larger-than-normal eye, cloudiness of the cornea, excessive tearing, and sensitivity to light.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, symptoms often develop slowly and may not be noticed until vision is significantly affected. Acute attacks can cause sudden eye pain, headache, nausea, and blurred vision.

Causes

Main causes

• Increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) due to fluid buildup
• Poor drainage of the fluid that naturally bathes the eye
• Less commonly, reduced blood flow to the optic nerve

Risk factors

• Age over 60
• Family history of glaucoma
• African, Caribbean, or Asian descent
• High eye pressure
• Thin cornea
• Certain medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
• Long-term use of corticosteroid medications

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden eye pain, vision changes, or see halos around lights, seek immediate medical attention.

Book a routine appointment if:

• All adults over 40 should have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years, especially if you have risk factors for glaucoma.
• If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, follow your doctor’s recommended check-up schedule.

Diagnosis

Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Tests that may be done

• Measurement of eye pressure (tonometry)
• Examination of the optic nerve (ophthalmoscopy)
• Visual field test to check for blind spots
• Measurement of corneal thickness
• Imaging of the optic nerve (such as OCT)

What to expect at your appointment

The exam is painless and takes about an hour. You may have drops to dilate your pupils, which can blur vision for a few hours afterwards.

Treatment

Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Treatment aims to lower eye pressure to prevent further nerve damage.

Self-care at home

• Take all prescribed eye drops exactly as directed, even if you feel fine.
• Use a reminder system (alarm, pillbox) to help remember drops.
• Keep all follow-up appointments with your eye doctor.
• Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry a card stating you have glaucoma.

Medical treatments

Eye drops are usually the first treatment to lower eye pressure. If drops are not enough, your doctor may recommend laser treatment (trabeculoplasty) or other procedures. In some cases, oral medications may be used.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be recommended if medications and laser are not controlling eye pressure. Surgical options include creating a new drainage channel (trabeculectomy) or implanting a tiny drainage tube. Surgery is usually done when other treatments fail.

Living with this condition

Glaucoma requires lifelong management. You will need to use eye drops regularly and see your eye doctor for periodic checks. It is important to know the signs of an acute attack and what to do.

Lifestyle tips

• Protect your eyes from injury – wear safety glasses when doing risky activities.
• Avoid sleeping on your side if it presses on your eye – ask your doctor about this.
• Manage other health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
• Avoid heavy lifting or activities that increase eye pressure suddenly.

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet rich in leafy greens and fruits may support eye health. Regular, moderate exercise can help lower eye pressure, but avoid inverted yoga poses or heavy weightlifting without guidance.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a chronic condition like glaucoma can be stressful. You may feel anxious about vision loss. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Remember, many resources are available to support you.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent glaucoma, but early detection through regular eye exams can slow or prevent vision loss. If you have risk factors, see an eye doctor every 1-2 years.

Screening programmes

All adults over 40 should have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years. If you have a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors, you may need more frequent exams.

Complications

If left untreated

• Permanent loss of peripheral vision
• Tunnel vision
• Blindness – glaucoma is a leading cause of preventable blindness

Long-term outlook

With early detection and proper treatment, most people with glaucoma can preserve useful vision for their entire lives. Treatment can effectively slow or halt further damage, although lost vision cannot be restored. Staying on top of your treatment plan is the best way to protect your sight.

Find support

Local organisations

• Ask your eye doctor about local support groups or vision rehabilitation services. · General

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