Glaucoma Basics for Older Adults

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve. Think of the optic nerve like a cable that sends pictures from your eye to your brain. For you to see clearly, this cable needs to be healthy.

Often, glaucoma happens when fluid builds up in the front part of the eye. This extra fluid increases pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve. Over time, this damage can lead to blind spots in your vision.

There are a few types of glaucoma, but the most common progress very slowly. You might not even know you have it at first. That is why learning about it is so helpful.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

In the early stages of glaucoma, many people have no symptoms. You may not feel discomfort or see changes in your eyesight. But as it gets worse, you may start to notice some problems with your vision:

• Patchy blind spots in your side vision (peripheral vision).
• Difficulty seeing things clearly in central vision.

If you suddenly have eye pain, a headache, blurry vision, or see halos around lights, you might have a more serious kind of glaucoma. In this case, you should seek medical help right away.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Anyone can get glaucoma, but some things may increase your chances. Knowing your risk factors can help you and your doctor decide how often you should get checked.

• Age: Individuals over 60 are at higher risk.
• Family History: If your parents or siblings have glaucoma, you may be more likely to develop it too.
• Medical Conditions: Health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease may increase your risk.
• Race: African Americans and Hispanics are more likely to develop glaucoma, sometimes at a younger age.

Glaucoma often doesn’t have early warning signs, so regular eye exams are the best way to stay safe. A simple vision test at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or during an annual physical isn’t enough. It’s better to have a full eye exam where the doctor will look closely at your eyes.

During this exam, the eye doctor may:

• Measure your eye pressure (this is often a quick, painless puff of air or a gentle touch).
• Dilate your pupils with drops to look at your optic nerve.
• Check your side vision.

Finding changes early may give you more options to save your sight.

How to Talk With Your Doctor

It is normal to have questions. Here are a few things you might want to ask at your next appointment:

• “Based on my age and health, how often should I have a full eye exam?”
• “What is my eye pressure reading, and is it in a normal range for me?”
• “Are there any specific signs of vision change I should look out for at home?”

Medications and Treatment

If your doctor finds signs of glaucoma, they may suggest treatment to lower your eye pressure. The most common treatment is prescription eye drops.

These drops work by either helping fluid drain from your eye or decreasing the amount of fluid your eye makes.

Tips for Using Medications

• Follow Instructions: Use your eye drops exactly as prescribed. If you miss a dose, the pressure in your eyes can go up again.
• Talk to Your Doctor: It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before you take any new medications or supplements. Some over-the-counter medicines might change the pressure in your eyes.
• Report Side Effects: If the eye drops make your eyes sting, itch, or turn red, let your doctor know. They may be able to switch you to a different type.

What You Can Do at Home

You can’t cure glaucoma by yourself, but these healthy habits can help support your overall eye health.

• Eat Green Vegetables: Foods like spinach and kale are good for your eyes.
• Moving Safely: Activity like walking may help lower eye pressure. Be sure to ask your doctor before you start a new exercise routine.
• Protecting Your Eyes: Wearing sunglasses and hats when outside helps protect your eyes from UV rays.
• Managing Health Conditions: Keeping your blood sugar and blood pressure in a healthy range may help protect your optic nerve.

Final thoughts for you to take away…

Glaucoma is a serious condition, but it doesn’t have to mean losing your independence. By getting regular eye exams and working closely with your doctor, you can take charge of your eye health. Remember, the earlier you catch something wrong, the more you can do to protect your vision.

If you have concerns about your vision or it has been a while since your last checkup, consider making an appointment today.