Typically, the human body has a very effective early warning system that can alert the individual when something is going wrong or not performing as it should. For example, a toothache will prompt you to visit the dentist so that they can take care of the issue and give you a filling or whatever else. However, it's not always possible to get advance warning when something begins to deteriorate, and this is particularly the case when it comes to the eyesight. This is why they call glaucoma the "thief of site," as it can sneak up on you with no symptoms until you gradually begin to lose your eyesight. If you've been diagnosed with this condition, what can you do and what should you guard against, in particular?
What's Going On?
Simply put, glaucoma is a disease that affects the optic nerve situated within the eye. This nerve is critical in helping to translate the images received by the eye so that the brain can present the "picture" to you. Unfortunately, the cells attached to the optic nerve begin to die due to elevated levels of pressure internally, and once it begins, it will generally continue to develop.
Surprising News
You may have been surprised to learn about this diagnosis, as you did not feel any pressure within the eye or anything strange at all, come to that. You may have been told that this disease is beginning to affect your visual field and particularly around the periphery.
Management
Certainly, this can be troubling news but while it may not be preventable, it is definitely treatable. It is also quite easy to maintain this level of treatment by taking drops one or more times per day, and this will help to lower the pressure and minimise the amount of damage so that you will be able to retain your vision.
Keeping up With the Treatment
It's very important for you to pay attention to the glaucoma management protocol and make sure that you continue applying these drops, no matter what. It can be tempting to "forget" or to believe that they are not necessary, as you may not be able to notice any of this pressure or any significant alteration to your eyesight. This is a very dangerous thought process, however, and you should continue the regimen in every case. You should also make sure that you get a comprehensive examination at least four times per year to make sure that everything is on track.
Other Options
Hopefully, drops will contain the development of glaucoma in your case, but you should also know that there may be surgical options in some instances. To see whether those are appropriate for you, talk with a surgeon who specialises in this field.
When I found out my toddler needed glasses, I wondered how I would ever get him to keep them on, and my fears were validated when my son decided they belonged in his dress-up box. A lot of trial and error and creative thinking were required to finally get to the point where my son would happily wear his glasses all day, and I felt relieved his eye health was being supported. I started this blog to share my tips with other parents whose child struggles to understand the importance of wearing glasses that have been prescribed for them. I hope you find my blog useful.