Glaucoma is an ocular condition characterized by elevated intraocular pressure, which can lead to gradual and irreversible vision impairment, potentially resulting in blindness. Regrettably, numerous misconceptions surrounding this condition can lead to misinformation. Below, we clarify the truth by dispelling six prevalent myths about glaucoma.

Glaucoma: Facts and Myths

MYTH 1: Glaucoma is a singular condition

FACT

Glaucoma encompasses a variety of eye disorders, with the most prevalent being open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and angle-closure glaucoma (ACG).

In open-angle glaucoma, the eye’s drainage system, known as the trabecular meshwork, fails to facilitate proper fluid outflow, resulting in elevated intraocular pressure that can damage the optic nerve. This form of glaucoma progresses gradually, and by the time individuals notice symptoms such as peripheral vision loss, optic nerve damage has often already occurred.

Conversely, angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the drainage pathway between the iris and cornea becomes excessively narrow, hindering fluid drainage and increasing eye pressure. This heightened pressure can harm the optic nerve, leading to vision loss, and ACG may develop either suddenly or over time.

MYTH 2: Glaucoma only affects older individuals

FACT

While it is accurate that individuals over the age of 60 are at a heightened risk for developing open-angle glaucoma compared to those in their 40s, other forms of glaucoma can impact individuals as young as 20 to 50 years old, and even infants, due to abnormal eye development.

In addition to age, the following groups are at an increased risk of developing glaucoma:

– African Americans and Hispanics
– Those with a family history of glaucoma
– Individuals with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, or sickle cell anemia
– People who have experienced prior eye injuries
– Long-term users of steroid medications

MYTH 3: Glaucoma presents early symptoms

FACT

The most prevalent type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, typically does not exhibit any noticeable signs or symptoms until it reaches advanced stages, at which point vision loss may occur. Contrary to common belief, the rise in intraocular pressure is generally painless.

MYTH 4: There is nothing that can be done once glaucoma is diagnosed.

FACT

Although there is no definitive cure for glaucoma at present, there are numerous effective treatment options available. These include eye drops, oral medications, and both laser and surgical interventions that can help to slow the progression of the disease. Each of these treatments aims to facilitate proper fluid drainage from the eye, thereby reducing intraocular pressure and minimizing damage to the optic nerve.

MYTH 5: Glaucoma testing is painful.

FACT

In reality, glaucoma testing is largely painless. One common method involves a non-contact device that emits a gentle puff of air into each eye to measure intraocular pressure. While the sound of the puff may be surprising, the procedure is quick and without discomfort. In the Goldmann applanation tonometry test, anesthetic eye drops are applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Following this, a blue light is used to gently touch the cornea for an accurate measurement of intraocular pressure. The most precise methods, such as visual field testing and optical coherence tomography (OCT), are non-invasive and also painless.

MYTH 6: Glaucoma cannot be prevented.

FACT

The only effective way to prevent glaucoma is through regular eye examinations. Early diagnosis and treatment can avert blindness or significant vision loss. This underscores the importance of routine comprehensive eye exams that include glaucoma screening.

By scheduling regular eye check-ups, you can ensure that any potential eye issues are identified early enough to prevent or mitigate ocular damage. Contact Eye Fashion Optical in Waco to arrange your comprehensive eye exam today!