Signs or risk factors for eye disease

Glaucoma is generally caused by an increase in IOP

Glaucoma is the second greatest factor leading to permanent blindness in the United States. The aqueous humor is a water-like fluid that occupies the anterior chamber of the eye where the pupil, lens, iris, and cornea are located. The fluid provides the eye with nutrients and the necessary pressure to help maintain the shape of the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). Glaucoma is generally caused by an increase in IOP, which subsequently damages the nerve fibers of the retina and the optic nerve.

Symptoms

The development of glaucoma can be asymptomatic as the condition tends to progress gradually. However, in some cases, the condition can progress rapidly, causing the following symptoms:

• Blurry vision
• Headache
• Nausea and emesis
• Severe eye pain
• Tenderness in the surrounding areas of the eye
• Reddening of the eye(s)
• Seeing halos around lights

Risk Factors

Individuals from Asian, African or Caribbean backgrounds are at more risk of developing the condition as well as those whose parents or siblings have also be diagnosed with the condition. Furthermore, the prevalence of glaucoma typically increases with age and is more common amongst individuals with long-sightedness or short-sightedness, and with medical conditions such as diabetes.

Cataract

Cataracts are characterized by cloudy patches of the eye’s lens. As the condition progresses, the patching typically increases in size resulting in misty or blurry vision and potentially, blindness. The condition is usually seen in both eyes. However, the rate of progression may differ between eyes, meaning a cataract may not develop in both eyes at the same time.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a cataract include:

• Perceiving colors to be faded
• Difficulty seeing in low light
• Finding lights glaring or too bright
• Blurry or misty vision

Pain may be experienced if the cataract is in an advanced stage of progression, or if there is another comorbid ocular condition.

Risk Factors

Like glaucoma, cataracts are commonly found in older adults. However, they may be seen in young children or babies. Other risk factors include parents or siblings being diagnosed with the condition, prolonged use of steroids, smoking, excessive drinking, and medical conditions such as diabetes.