Glaucoma is one of the serious eye conditions which have to be treated properly for long-term vision. It is a group of eye conditions that causes damage to the optic nerve that plays a vital role in healthy perfect vision. Increased intraocular pressure inside the eye can damage the optic nerve, though glaucoma can also develop with normal eye pressure. Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition that causes gradual vision loss. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness. Among the world blindness glaucoma’s contribution is higher and as the age increases the risk factor also increases simultaneously. So elder has to under the risk of developing glaucoma increases with age and older adults need to get to know about the condition and undergo regular eye screenings. The below content explores the connection between age and the development of glaucoma, check it out.
Types of glaucoma
Before you are about to know the age risk factor involved in glaucoma it is essential to know about the two primary types of glaucoma,
Open-angle glaucoma
This is considered to be the most common form of glaucoma, where the drainage angle formed by the cornea and iris remains open. However, the trabecular meshwork, through which the aqueous humor drains, becomes partially blocked, causing gradual pressure buildup in the eye. Open-angle glaucoma is often symptomless until significant vision loss occurs.
Angle-closure glaucoma
This is a less common but more acute form of glaucoma. In this condition, the drainage angle closes, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). Angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency, requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
Both forms of glaucoma are influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and age.
The role of age in glaucoma development
Age is a major risk factor for glaucoma, as its prevalence increases over time. Here are some key ways in which age influences the development of glaucoma:
- As individuals age, various changes occur in the structure of the eye that increases the likelihood of developing glaucoma. The eye's drainage system, responsible for maintaining normal intraocular pressure, becomes less efficient with age. Increased intraocular pressure is one of the main causes of optic nerve damage in glaucoma. Additionally, aging affects the optic nerve's ability to resist damage.
- Studies show that individuals over the age of 40 are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, particularly open-angle glaucoma. While glaucoma is not exclusive to older adults, the prevalence of the disease is much higher among those in their middle-aged and elderly years. After the age of 60, the risk doubles approximately every decade.
- Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it progresses slowly and painlessly. Most people do not experience symptoms until significant damage has occurred. As people age, they are exposed to this slow progression for longer periods, which increases the likelihood of undiagnosed glaucoma. A person who begins to experience slight optic nerve damage in their 50s may not notice significant vision loss until their 60s or 70s, by which time treatment options may be less effective at preserving vision.
Other risk factors for glaucoma in older adults
While age is a major risk factor for glaucoma, other factors can compound this risk, especially in older adults. These include family history, chronic conditions, and previous eye injuries or surgeries.
Prevention and early detection
Although age-related changes in the eye cannot be avoided, early detection and intervention are crucial in managing glaucoma. Here are steps that older adults can take to reduce their risk, including regular eye examinations, managing chronic conditions, and lifestyle modifications.
Age is one of the most common risk factors for glaucoma. Therefore, doctors recommend regular eye examinations to detect the condition early and provide essential management strategies. Visit The Eye Foundation to monitor your eye health. By staying proactive, older adults can reduce their risk of vision loss from glaucoma and maintain better eye health as they age.