Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the health of which is vital for good vision. This damage is often caused, but not always, by an abnormally high pressure in your eye. The eye pressure increases when either too much fluid is produced in the eye or the drainage or outflow channels (trabecular meshwork) of the eye become blocked.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over the age of 60. It can occur at any age but is more common in older adults. Many forms of glaucoma have no warning signs. The effect is so gradual that you may not notice a change in vision until the condition is at an advanced stage.
Once this damage occurs, it cannot be reversed. Therefore, it is extremely important to get your eye pressure tested on an annual basis by visiting Capitol Eye Care Center.
Risk Factors for Increased Eye Pressure
- 60 Years of Age or Older
- Have a History of Eye Surgery
- Have a Previous Eye Injury
- Having Extreme Nearsightedness or Farsightedness
- High Internal Eye Pressure
- Other People in the Family Have High Eye Pressure