Vision is one of our most precious senses, and yet so many of us take it for granted. Many eye diseases do not show any symptoms until vision has already been affected. That's why it's so important to get a comprehensive eye exam on a regular basis. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss and blindness. In fact, it is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness all over the world.

Silent Thief of Sight

Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it generally has no early warning signs. By the time symptoms appear, permanent vision loss may have already occurred. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world.

There are two types of glaucoma: open-angle and angle-closure. Open-angle is the most common type, accounting for about 90% of all cases. Angle-closure is less common but more serious, because it can lead to a sudden increase in eye pressure, resulting in severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. This can progress to permanent vision loss within days or even hours if left untreated.

Fortunately, glaucoma can be detected through a comprehensive eye exam and is treatable if caught early. The goal of treatment is to prevent vision loss by lowering eye pressure.

Get a Comprehensive Eye Exam

This is the best way to detect glaucoma early before vision loss occurs. Be sure to tell your optometrist if you have a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors for the disease.

Get Regular Exercise

Exercise helps improve blood circulation and reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), which is a risk factor for glaucoma. Even a moderate amount of exercise can make a big difference in your overall health.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is not just good for your overall health, but it may help to lower your risk of developing glaucoma. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help to reduce Intraocular Pressure (IOP), which is a leading cause of glaucoma. In addition, a healthy diet can also help to protect the optic nerve.

Don't Smoke

Smoking is a risk factor for many health problems, including glaucoma. Smoking can damage the optic nerve and increase IOP, both of which are risk factors for glaucoma. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your overall health, including your eye health.

Manage Your Diabetes

If you have diabetes, it's important to keep your blood sugar levels under control. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina. In addition, people with diabetes are also at increased risk for glaucoma.

Manage Your High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the retina. People with high blood pressure are also at increased risk for glaucoma, so be sure to get regular comprehensive eye exams.

Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. However, there are steps you can take to prevent vision loss from glaucoma. You can also contact Eyecare Studio Singapore to help you with glaucoma screening, especially if you are in the higher risk group. Eyecare Studio also collaborates with ophthalmologists in Singapore to do follow up if you are already diagnosed with glaucoma.