Tijuana Eye Center
Eye Disorders
Eye Disorders
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal sight without warning. In the early stages of the disease, there may be no symptoms. Experts estimate that half of the people affected by glaucoma may not know they have it.
Most at risk
African-Americans
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness among African-Americans. It is six to eight times more common in African-Americans than in Caucasians.
People Over 60
Glaucoma is much more common among older people. You are six times more likely to get glaucoma if you are over 60 years old.
Family Members with Glaucoma
The most common type of glaucoma, primary open angle glaucoma, is hereditary. If members of your immediate family have glaucoma, you are at a much higher risk than the rest of the population. Family history increases risk of glaucoma four to nine times.
Steroid Users
A study reported in the Journal of American Medical Association, March 5, 1997, demonstrated a 40% increase in the incidence of ocular hypertension and open angle glaucoma in adults who require approximately 14 to 35 puffs of steroid inhaler to control asthma. This is a very high dose, only required in cases of severe asthma.
Asians
People of Asian descent appear to be at some risk for angle closure glaucoma. Angle closure glaucoma accounts for less than 10% of all diagnosed cases of glaucoma. Otherwise there is no known increased risk in Asian populations.
Hispanics in Older Age Groups
Recent studies indicate that the risk for Hispanic populations is greater than those of predominantly European ancestry, and that the risk increases among Hispanics over age 60.
Eye Injury
Injury to the eye may cause secondary open angle glaucoma. This type of glaucoma can occur immediately after the injury or years later. Blunt injuries that âbruiseâ the eye (called blunt trauma) or injuries that penetrate the eye can damage the eyeâs drainage system, leading to traumatic glaucoma. The most common cause is sports-related injuries such as baseball or boxing.
Other Risk Factors
Possible risk factors include:
- high myopia (nearsightedness)
- diabetes
- hypertension
- Central corneal thickness less than .5 mm.
Common Tests for Glaucoma
Regular glaucoma check-ups include two routine eye tests: tonometry and ophthalmoscopy.
Key Points Summary
- Early Detection: Focus on early testing to identify glaucoma before significant vision loss occurs.
- Advanced Treatment Techniques: Medications, laser therapy, and surgery to manage intraocular pressure.
- Long-Term Management: Regular monitoring to adapt treatment plans and prevent progression of the disease.
- Education and Support: Patients are educated about lifestyle adjustments and treatment compliance.
KEY
POINTS