Glaucoma is a serious eye problem that can lead to blindness. Many Nigerian adults don’t know they have it because it often starts without any symptoms.
This article will explain what it is, who is at risk, the signs to look for, and how to take care of your eyes.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease that damages your eyes. It happens when the pressure inside your eye gets too high. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness for people over 60 years old.
Over time, this high pressure can damage your optic nerve, the part of your eye that sends messages to your brain.
The Prevalence of Glaucoma in Nigeria
Globally, it’s the second leading cause of blindness after cataracts. Many people are unaware they have it because it often shows no early symptoms.
Why is it a Concern for Older Adults?
As people age, the risk of developing glaucoma increases. This is because the eye’s drainage system can become less effective over time, leading to higher eye pressure. Early detection and prevention are crucial to avoid vision loss.
Risk Factors for Glaucoma in Nigerian Adults
It is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss. Several factors can increase the risk of developing it in Nigerian adults.
Understanding these risks can help in early detection and prevention. Here are the main risk factors:
- Family History: If someone in your family has had it, you are more likely to develop it yourself. Family history is one of the biggest risk factors for glaucoma.
- Age: As you get older, your risk of developing it increases. Glaucoma is more common in people over the age of 40.
- Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups are at higher risk, glaucoma is more common among people of African descent compared to other groups. African adults may develop it at a younger age and it can be more severe.
- High Eye Pressure: Elevated eye pressure is a major risk factor for it. While not everyone with high eye pressure will get it, it increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Medical Conditions: Certain health problems can increase your risk of this eye disease. Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can contribute to the development of glaucoma.
- Eye Injuries: Past eye injuries or trauma can increase the risk of this eye disease. If you’ve had a serious eye injury, it’s important to have regular eye check-ups.
- Use of Steroids Medications: Long-term use of steroid medications, especially eye drops, can increase eye pressure and raise the risk of having it.
- Thin Corneas: Having thinner than average corneas can make you more likely to develop it. A thin cornea may not protect the eye as well against pressure changes.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
It often develops slowly, and early symptoms can be easy to miss. Common symptoms include:
- Vision Loss: Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision, leading to tunnel vision.
- Eye Pain: Severe eye pain, especially in acute cases.
- Headaches: Frequent headaches, often severe.
- Blurry Vision: Sudden blurry vision, halos around lights.
- Nausea and Vomiting: In severe cases, these can accompany eye pain and blurred vision.
Different Types of Glaucoma in Adults
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss. Here are the main types that affect adults:
Open-Angle Glaucoma
This is the most common type. It happens when the drainage canals in the eye become clogged over time. Even though these canals look open, the buildup of fluid increases pressure inside the eye, damaging the optic nerve.
This type often has no early symptoms and can go unnoticed for years.
Closed-Angel Glaucoma
Also known as angle-closure or narrow-angle glaucoma, this type occurs when the angle between the iris and cornea is too narrow. If the pupil dilates suddenly, it can block the drainage canals, causing a rapid increase in eye pressure.
Symptoms may include severe eye pain, headaches, and nausea, and require immediate medical treatment.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
In normal-tension glaucoma, optic nerve damage occurs even when eye pressure is normal or low. The exact cause of this type is unclear, but it is more common in people of Asian descent.
Symptoms are similar to other types but can be harder to detect because the eye pressure is not elevated.
Secondary Glaucoma
This type develops as a result of another condition or disease, such as eye injuries, infections, or certain medications.
It can cause the same symptoms as other types and requires treatment of the underlying condition as well as the glaucoma.
Pigmentary Glaucoma
This occurs when pigment from the iris (the colored part of the eye) flakes off and blocks the drainage canals.
This type is rare and usually develops in people with a high level of physical activity. Symptoms can include eye pain and blurred vision.
Impact on Health and Wellbeing
If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness. This affects not only vision but also overall quality of life.
Vision loss can limit daily activities, reduce independence, and increase the risk of accidents. It can also lead to emotional and psychological stress.
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Diagnosing it involves several tests and exams to check the health of your eyes and measure the pressure inside them.
Here’s how doctors typically diagnose it:
1. Eye Pressure Test (Tonometry): This test measures the pressure inside your eye. High eye pressure can be a sign of glaucoma. The test is quick and painless. It often involves a small puff of air or a special instrument placed on the eye.
2.Visual Field Test: This test checks your peripheral (side) vision to see if there are any blind spots. It can cause loss of side vision, so this test helps detect any changes.
3. Optic Nerve Exam: Doctors use a special tool called an ophthalmoscope to look at the optic nerve at the back of your eye. They check for damage or changes in the nerve that could be caused by glaucoma.
4. Eye Exam (Dilation): During this exam, your pupils are widened with special drops. This allows the doctor to examine the inside of your eyes more closely, including the retina and optic nerve.
5. Corneal Thickness Test: This test measures the thickness of your cornea. A thinner cornea can be a risk factor for glaucoma. The measurement is quick and involves a small device touching the front of your eye.
6. Gonioscopy: This test checks the drainage angle of your eye to see if it is open or blocked. The doctor uses a special lens to view this angle and determine if it could lead to glaucoma.
Medical Treatments for Glaucoma
Several medical treatments can help manage it and prevent further vision loss:
- Medications: Eye drops and oral medications can reduce eye pressure.
- Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can improve fluid drainage in the eye.
- Surgery: Surgical procedures can create a new drainage path for eye fluid.
Traditional Treatments for Glaucoma
In addition to medical treatments, some traditional methods may help:
- Herbal Remedies: Some people use herbal teas made from plants like ginkgo biloba or bilberry, believed to improve eye health.
- Dietary Changes: Eating a diet rich in leafy greens, carrots, and fish can support eye health.
- Eye Exercises: Regular eye exercises may help improve blood circulation to the eyes.
Preventing Glaucoma
Prevention is key to managing glaucoma.
Regular Eye Exams:
- Visit an eye doctor regularly, at least once a year. Eye exams can detect glaucoma early before significant damage occurs.
- Make sure to get a comprehensive eye exam, which includes measuring the pressure inside your eyes.
Know Your Family History:
- If you have a family history of glaucoma, inform your eye doctor. It can be hereditary, so knowing your family history can help with early detection and prevention.
Exercise Regularly:
- Regular physical activity can help lower eye pressure. Aim for moderate exercise, such as walking or jogging, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
Take Prescribed Medications:
- If your doctor prescribes eye drops or other medications to lower eye pressure, use them as directed. Skipping doses can increase the risk of having it.
Protect Your Eyes:
- Wear protective eyewear when doing activities that could cause eye injury, such as gardening or playing sports. Eye injuries can lead to glaucoma.
Eat a Healthy Diet:
- Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals can support eye health. Include leafy greens, fish, and fruits in your diet.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol:
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect your overall health, including your eyes. Quit smoking and drink alcohol in moderation.
Manage Health Conditions:
- Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can increase the risk of glaucoma. Keep these conditions under control with the help of your doctor.
Conclusion
Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that affects many Nigerian adults. Understanding its prevalence, causes, symptoms, and treatments can help manage the disease and prevent vision loss.
Both medical and traditional treatments can play a role in maintaining eye health and overall wellbeing. Regular eye check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are essential in preventing it and preserving vision.
