Protect Your Vision: Understanding Glaucoma and Eye Health, Even for the Young.

Glaucoma is commonly known as an eye disease that affects the elderly, but recently, its incidence has been rapidly increasing among people in their 30s and older. Glaucoma is a serious condition that can lead to vision loss due to optic nerve damage. In this post, we will delve deeply into the causes, symptoms, prevention, and management of glaucoma.

 

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition with increasing prevalence among the younger population.

 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease where the optic nerve is damaged due to increased intraocular pressure or impaired blood supply to the eye. This condition can lead to vision impairment and blindness if not detected early and managed properly.

 

While glaucoma tends to occur primarily in individuals over 40, recent studies show an increase in cases among those in their 30s. In South Korea, the prevalence of glaucoma increased by 22.1% from 974,941 in 2019 to 1,190,582 in 2023, with the prevalence among those in their 30s rising by 8.4% from 67,974 to 73,713 during the same period.

 

Causes of Glaucoma

The main causes of glaucoma include.

 

• Increased Intraocular Pressure: Use of steroid eye drops, diabetes, hypertension, intense physical activity, prolonged use of electronic devices, smoking, and excessive caffeine consumption can all raise intraocular pressure.
• Myopia and High Myopia: Severe myopia elongates the eyeball, stretching the optic nerve and increasing the risk of glaucoma.
• Genetic Factors: A family history of glaucoma increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Lifestyle Habits: Working for long periods in dark environments with a downward head position can increase eye pressure, leading to glaucoma.

 

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often asymptomatic in its early stages, making early detection difficult. As the disease progresses, the field of vision gradually narrows, potentially leading to blindness in advanced stages. Notably, normal-tension glaucoma can damage the optic nerve even when intraocular pressure is within the normal range.

 

Prevention and Management

Early detection and prevention are crucial for managing glaucoma. Here are ways to prevent and manage glaucoma.

Regular Check-ups

Since glaucoma is asymptomatic in its early stages, regular eye examinations are essential. Those over 40, individuals with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension or diabetes, patients with high myopia, and those with a family history of glaucoma should have check-ups every six months.

Lifestyle Improvements

• Appropriate Exercise: Moderate exercise that doesn't excessively strain the eyes is beneficial. Avoid exercises that direct blood flow to the face or involve a prone position.
• Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Stress Management: Stress negatively impacts overall health, so manage it through meditation or yoga.
• Controlled Use of Electronic Devices: Prolonged use of electronic devices increases eye strain and intraocular pressure. Follow the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) to reduce eye strain.

Create a Suitable Environment

Avoid working for long periods in dark settings, keep your workspace well-lit, and avoid excessive downward head positioning while working.

Intraocular Pressure Management

Consult with a doctor about the dosage if using steroid eye drops, and manage hypertension and diabetes to prevent increased intraocular pressure.

 

Conclusion

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition with increasing prevalence among the younger population. Early symptoms are rare, making regular check-ups and prevention vital. Improving lifestyle habits, maintaining appropriate exercise and diet, and moderating the use of electronic devices are essential for comprehensive management.

 

Raising awareness about eye diseases and proactively practicing prevention and management is crucial for protecting vision. Consistent attention and effort are necessary to reduce the risk of glaucoma, maintain healthy eyes, and enhance the quality of daily life. Schedule an eye examination now and take the first step towards preserving your vision.