How to best guard yourself from Glaucoma, ‘The Silent Thief of Sight’

The sense of sight is an important if not the most important sense we have. Despite this fact, many people are not properly aware of the wide range of diseases that can affect their eyesight, as well as the proper treatment and precautionary measures that can be undertaken in this regard. This is especially crucial with regards to Glaucoma, which is regarded as the ‘Silent Thief of Sight.’

Glaucoma belongs to a unique group of eye disorders that lead to the damage of the optic nerve and result in vision loss and blindness. The disease has earned the reputation of being a ‘Silent Killer’ because there are no overt and visible symptoms or physical pain associated with the onset of Glaucoma. In fact, the disease is so subtle in its affliction that those suffering from it stand to lose 40 percent of their vision before even becoming aware of its development in one or both eyes

Glaucoma can only be diagnosed following a comprehensive eye examination using a dilation or retinal scanner to ensure efficient and accurate results. Patients who are suffering from Glaucoma and are not able to receive treatment will first slowly lose their peripheral vision. If the disease persists without proper medical attention, the patients will miss objects in and out of the corner of their eye leading to a case of tunnel vision. In time, central vision may decrease until complete degeneration of the eyesight.

Therefore, it is important for people to note and be aware of the difference between the normal symptoms of an ageing eye or one possibly suffering from Glaucoma or other ocular diseases. This can be done by learning what is natural, what is preventable and possible warning signs so the subject is able to seek help and treatment before it is too late. It is for this reason that having regular medical examinations are crucial as specialized doctors such as ophthalmologists are the only ones who have the necessary knowledge and expertise to determine whether symptoms of your eyesight should be a cause of concern.

This is a particularly important tip for people over the age of 40. It is between the ages of 40 to 60 that individuals are most likely to develop eye problems. Unfortunately, during this time the degeneration of the eyesight might start to affect work and other personal daily routines. Adults over the age of 40 may also be particularly in high risk if they currently exhibit or have: a genetic history of chronic, systemic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure; macular degeneration; A highly visually demanding job or work in an eye-hazardous occupational; health conditions like high cholesterol, thyroid conditions, anxiety or depression, and arthritis. In additions, medications even standard antihistamines sometimes have ocular side-effects.

It is important to discern which symptoms are symptoms of a bigger problem or merely normal changes of an aging eye. A normal aging eye will need more light, compared to before. There will also be increased difficulty in reading and doing close work as the eye becomes less flexible and is less able to focus on objects that are near and on printed material. This condition is Presbyopia.

Symptoms of an aging eye also include increased problems with glare from headlights at night or from the reflection of the sun in windshields during the day along with being more susceptible to cataract. It also affects color perception, making it hard to distinguish between certain shades and reduced tear production which lead to dry eyes. To alleviate this concerns patients can get prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery procedures.

Although Glaucoma is difficult to detect immediately, people should be made aware of what conditions make people particularly susceptible to disease as well as red flags they should watch out for with regard to their eye condition as early detection can mean the difference between keeping or losing one’s vision as a result of Glaucoma and other harmful ocular afflictions.

Seeing spots and floaters is one such indicator. Though seeing spots and floaters can be considered a natural symptom of an ageing eye an unusual frequent case of such especially accompanied by bright, flashing lights may point to a torn retina which should be treated immediately.

Certain warning signs also include fluctuating vision. If people experience changes in how clearly they can see, it may be a sign of diabetes. Severe cases of diabetes can rupture tiny blood vessels in the retina which may lead to loss of vision. Also, diabetes puts one at high risk for Glaucoma. Other high-risk segments include those who already have a family history of the disease and people who are severely nearsighted.

It is imperative that the people of the UAE are properly educated with regard to this disease so they are able to pursue certain precautions. As of now, the UAE has recorded one of the highest diabetes rates in the world.  According to recent statistics by the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) almost 19 percent of the UAE’s is diabetic.

While aging is an inevitable reality there are certain habits and positive lifestyle changes that can be done to ensure that your eyesight will remain clear and strong for the longest period of time. This includes scheduling routine eye examination, guarding your eyes from the sun, monitoring your blood pressure and exercising regularly, avoid cigarettes and maintain strict control over blood sugar and cholesterol.