What is Glaucoma?

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye condition that is linked to a build-up of pressure inside your eye, damaging your optic nerve. Our optic nerves are responsible for sending images to our brain. Therefore, in the event that there's damage and it worsens, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss or even total blindness within a few years.

Most people with glaucoma have no early symptoms or pain. Therefore doing eye health checks regularly can help diagnose and treat glaucoma before any long-term vision loss.

Who does it affect?

3% of Singaporeans aged above 40 are affected by Glaucoma, and this risk increases as we get older.

The risk of developing Glaucoma depends on both genetic and lifestyle factors. You have a higher risk of getting Glaucoma if you:

- Have a family history of glaucoma

- > 50 years old

- Have co-existing medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.

- Have poor vision, high myopia, etc

- Have been using steroids

How can I prevent glaucoma?

1. Ensure that you go for regular comprehensive eye exams.

- By getting regular eye checks, your optometrist or eye doctor will be able to help detect gluaucoma in its early stages. It is best to get your eyes checked every 6 months.

2. Exercise regularly

- Make sure that you exercise with caution. Avoid overly intense exercise as overly high heart rates can also increase the pressure on your eyes.

3. Adopt healthy eating habits

- Eat plenty of food that are rich in vitamins and minerals to protect your vision. Some examples include leafy vegetables and most fruits!

4. Protect your precious eyes

- Wear quality sunglasses or a hat when heading outdoors to protect your eyes from the sunlight.