Fit & Proper: Are you ignoring signs of glaucoma?

The eye is one of the most important sense organs, and it is very important to take care of it. But while people are aware of the problem of cataract, which can be cured by a simple surgery, few know about glaucoma - the second largest eye disease, which is, in fact, incurable after a certain stage. The symptoms of glaucoma are often ignored by most people who confuse it with other minor diseases and do not realise its intensity. The common symptoms include headache, frequent change in eye power and dryness of the eyes. Some other symptoms are blurred vision, nausea and loss of sight.

The veins usually become weak when you have glaucoma, which is the main cause for the problem. If not detected in time, glaucoma can even lead to loss of eyesight and there is no way of restoring it.

The frequently increasing eye power is often attributed to constant exposure to the computer or TV. With poor lifestyles leading to increased episodes of headaches, glaucoma-related headaches go undetected. Nausea too is dismissed as the result of a poor diet or faulty routine. And so, people fail to nail the symptoms of glaucoma. The problem is that there is no complete cure for glaucoma. It can only be controlled by medicines and that too if it is detected in time. People with diabetes, those who are on steroids or those who have suffered eye trauma are usually most likely to develop glaucoma.

QUICK TIPS

• Eye check-up: Make sure you get your eyes checked every two years. The optic nerve needs to be examined as soon as you realise you are facing vision loss. You must ensure that you know whether you are at risk of getting glaucoma.
   
• Eye pressure: The optic nerve is damaged because of the high pressure in the eye. You must know the right eye pressure for you.
   
• Medication: Considering that glaucoma is a lifelong condition, you must take your medicines regularly and as prescribed by the doctor.

A K Nagpal
Ophthalmologist, Park Hospital