Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve, the health of which is vital for good vision. It is one of the leading causes of blindness for individuals over 60 years old. However, blindness from glaucoma can often be prevented with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
 

How Glaucoma Affects Vision: Recognizing the Signs

Glaucoma primarily affects your peripheral vision, which is the vision we use to see objects all around us without turning our heads. With glaucoma, you might not notice anything until you've lost a significant amount of your peripheral vision.
 

One of the changes to watch out for is a gradual loss of peripheral vision, often in both eyes. This can be like looking through a tube or having tunnel vision. Over time, straight-ahead vision may decrease until no vision remains, a state known as blindness.
 

Another change could be seeing halos around lights. Vision often becomes blurred or distorted, and adjusting to low light can become more difficult. Seniors with glaucoma might also notice that colors seem less bright.
 

Managing Vision Changes with Glaucoma

Managing vision changes in seniors with glaucoma involves a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle modifications. Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring the progression of the disease and adjusting treatments as necessary.
 

Medications, often in the form of eye drops, are the most common early treatment for glaucoma. They are designed to reduce elevated intraocular pressure and prevent damage to the optic nerve. However, they require regular and lifelong use.
 

Lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in managing vision changes due to glaucoma. These include regular exercise, a healthy diet, limiting caffeine, and avoiding smoking. Activities that strain the eyes or increase eye pressure, such as heavy lifting, should be avoided.
 

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

There are several treatment options available for glaucoma in seniors, depending on the type and severity of the condition. These range from medications to surgical procedures.
 

Eye drops are the most common form of treatment and can effectively control eye pressure when used regularly. Oral medications may also be prescribed if eye drops aren't enough. Laser procedures, such as trabeculoplasty, iridotomy, and cyclophotocoagulation, can also help drain fluid from the eye and reduce pressure.
 

In more severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to create a new drainage channel for the fluid in the eye. These treatments can help to slow or prevent further vision loss in seniors with glaucoma.
 

Conclusion

Glaucoma in seniors is a serious condition that requires attention and regular monitoring. Recognizing the signs of glaucoma and managing vision changes can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors living with this disease. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.
 

For more information on recognizing and managing vision changes in seniors with glaucoma, visit GrandView Eyecare at our office in Fairbury or Hebron, Nebraska. Please call (402) 729-6162 or (402) 768-6651 to schedule an appointment today.