Jan 26, 2018 by Marlin Duncan
Seniors who are over the age of 60 have the highest risk for developing glaucoma. And since there is usually no pain associated with glaucoma, some seniors may not even know they have it if they don’t watch for the signs and symptoms of the disease. Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the US.
During Glaucoma Awareness Month in Wilkes-Barre, PA seniors should make sure that they obtain an annual vision and eye exam. Comfort Keepers senior care services can make it easier for your loved one who has trouble organizing appointments or who can no longer drive.
While glaucoma cannot be prevented, it can be controlled if it is diagnosed and treated early. Older adults who make yearly visits to the ophthalmologist a priority can reduce their risk of blindness and enjoy healthy eyes and a higher quality of life throughout their golden years.
Most of the time, glaucoma occurs when the fluid inside of the eye does not drain properly. When the fluid builds up, the pressure inside of the eye does as well. This pressure hinders the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss and blindness in time. Glaucoma can also arise in an individual with normal eye pressure if there is poor blood flow to the nerve or the optic nerve is fragile.
High pressure within the eye is the greatest risk factor for glaucoma. However, other risk factors include old age, thin corneas, steroid use, previous eye injuries, a family history of glaucoma, a history of shock or anemia, and nearsightedness.
There are a number of different ways a doctor may treat glaucoma. Eye drops, the most common solution, works by reducing the formation of eye fluid or increasing its outflow. Redness, allergies, irritation, and stinging are all side effects of glaucoma eye drops so seniors should inform a doctor of any other medications they are allergic to. A doctor may prescribe an oral medication if eye drops do not help. Senior care services can provide extra help and support for seniors who are going through glaucoma treatments at home.
Laser surgery may also be an option for glaucoma and increase the flow of eye fluid for older adults with open-angle glaucoma. For seniors with angle-closure glaucoma, laser surgery may be effective in stopping fluid blockage. Cyclophotocoagulation, trabeculoplasty, and iridotomy are all examples of laser surgeries that may be performed to treat glaucoma.
While there are several types of glaucoma, the most common one is open-angle glaucoma. Since it does not display any signs or symptoms except for gradual loss, it’s imperative that older adults visit the ophthalmologist yearly so that any vision changes can be monitored.
There is another type of glaucoma called narrow-angle glaucoma, which is considered a medical emergency. If a senior experiences symptoms such as severe eye pain, eye redness, nausea, vomiting, sudden blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights, they should visit their doctor immediately.
Several lifestyle and home health care remedies can improve glaucoma and eye health as well. A healthy diet full of dark, leafy green vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids, frequent exercise, and sleeping with an elevated head are all recommended.
Seniors in Wilkes Barre, PA who are over the age of 60 can get extra help around the house from senior care services. To find out more about the benefits of an in home caregiver for your senior loved one, contact us today. Our senior advisors can help answer your questions and assist you in scheduling a free in-home consultation.