Common Glaucoma Myths

​Glaucoma is an eye disease that involves damage to the optic nerve. It often develops due to increased eye pressure. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, glaucoma is the most common cause of vision loss in adults over 60. 

Although it is a common disease, there may be some misconceptions about the condition. Keep reading below to separate myths from the facts about glaucoma. 

Myth: Glaucoma causes symptoms right away.

Truth: According to the National Eye Institute, in many cases, glaucoma does not cause any symptoms in the early stages. Most people may not even realize they have the disease. The condition can be diagnosed through an eye exam, which is why it is so essential to have regular eye exams. 

​Myth: Only older adults get glaucoma.

Truth: Glaucoma is thought of as a disease of the elderly. It is true that glaucoma occurs more frequently in people over the age of 40. But it can also develop in younger adults. In fact, glaucoma even develops in children. Symptoms of glaucoma can occur in kids as young as two or three. 

Myth: Everyone with glaucoma has increased eye pressure. 

Truth: Over time, high eye pressure can lead to damage of the optic nerve and cause glaucoma, but glaucoma also develops in people that have normal levels of eye pressure. It is not entirely clear why it occurs in people without increased eye pressure. One theory is some people may have problems with blood flow to the eye or be unusually sensitive to normal pressure levels. 

Myth: Glaucoma is not curable, so early diagnosis does not matter. 

Truth: Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for glaucoma. But that does not mean getting diagnosed early is unimportant. The longer the condition goes undiagnosed, the more damage done to the optic nerve. Getting diagnosed as early as possible increases your chances of saving your sight. Early diagnosis allows treatment, which may slow the progression of the disease. 

The Glaucoma Research Foundation recommends people between the ages of 40 and 54 have an eye exam that checks for glaucoma every one to three years. People between 55 and 64 should have a check every year, or two, and adults over 65 should be screened every six months to a year.
​
Usually, treatment includes eye drops that reduce eye pressure to prevent continued damage to the optic nerve. In some instances, glaucoma is managed with surgery to reduce the fluid in the eye and, in turn, decrease eye pressure. Laser surgery and other types of eye surgery may be used when eye drops do not work to control pressure.

Myth: Only people with risk factors develop glaucoma. 

Truth: Anyone can develop glaucoma. But certain factors have been identified as increasing your risk. For instance, having a family history of glaucoma increases your risk of developing the disease. People that are African American or Hispanic also are at an increased risk of developing glaucoma. They also appear to develop glaucoma at an earlier age than Asian or Caucasian people. But many people develop glaucoma that do not have any known risk factors. Still, it is helpful to know your risk in order to get more frequent or timely comprehensive eye exams. 
​

Myth: There is nothing you can do to decrease your risk of glaucoma. 

Truth: Glaucoma is not always preventable, but certain lifestyle factors are associated with a higher chance of developing the condition. For instance, eye injuries can cause secondary or traumatic glaucoma. Using the proper eyewear when participating in certain sports or work can protect your eyes from injury.

Exercise may also help decrease your risk of developing glaucoma. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, studies have indicated that moderate exercise three or more times a week may help lower interocular eye pressure, which can reduce your risk of glaucoma.

Keep in mind; one of the most important things you can do to protect your vision is to get regular eye exams. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an exam with one of our ophthalmologists, please phone us at 508-746-8600.