Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness, following cataracts, and the major cause of permanent blindness. It is a class of eye illnesses that harms the optic nerve, which transfers visual information from the eye to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause gradual vision loss over time, glaucoma is also known as the ‘silent thief of sight’.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. However, the majority of individuals believe a variety of myths about glaucoma. Dr Shibi Dev B N, Senior Consultant and Head of Glaucoma at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital in Jayanagar, Bangalore, refuted some of them, identified others, and revealed the facts.
Myth 1: Glaucoma exclusively affects the old people.
Fact: While glaucoma is more common among older people, it can affect persons of any age. Genetics, high blood pressure, diabetes, or eye injuries can all contribute to a rise in intraocular pressure, which causes optic nerve injury.
Myth 2: People with excellent vision don’t get glaucoma.
Fact: Glaucoma can affect anyone, regardless of how good or perfect their vision is now. Glaucoma is regarded as the ‘silent thief of eyesight’ because even those with 20/20 eyesight can develop the condition. As a result, even if you don’t wear prescription glasses, you should have your eyes tested.
Myth 3: Glaucoma affects just one eye.
Glaucoma typically develops in both eyes, however, pressure is often elevated in one eye first. The steady increase in intraocular pressure affects the optic nerve, resulting in vision abnormalities. In most cases, peripheral vision is compromised first, followed by tunnel vision in the latter stages.
Myth 4: Excessive screen time and an incorrect diet increase the risk of glaucoma.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence associating excessive screen time and an unhealthy diet with glaucoma. However, those with myopia (nearsightedness) may be in danger.
Myth 5: If you have glaucoma, you will go blind.
Glaucoma is the number one cause of preventable blindness. Glaucoma can be avoided with early identification, diagnosis, and treatment. It can be managed with eye drops and newer operations such as Trabeculoplasty and MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery).
Glaucoma is an eye disease that can affect anyone, the good news is that Glaucoma surgery can help you to restore your vision. However, the outcome can differ from person to person. At Nethradhama Super Specialty Eye Hospital many patients report greater visual clarity after surgery, but the degree depends on your overall eye health and whether you have additional eye-related diseases. Nethradhama Super Specialty Eye Hospital is dedicated to maintaining and improving its vision thanks to its specialised services and skilled staff. Because of these Specialties, Nethradhama Super Specialty Eye Hospital emerges as the best hospital for eye care.
Source : ABP Live