Glaucoma is a disorder that impacts over three million people in the United States, the majority of which are individuals over the age of 70. This condition, which is caused by elevated pressure within the eye, results in damage to the optic nerve and causes vision loss when left untreated. Glaucoma can be linked to certain pre-existing health conditions, but all patients are at risk for developing it, so optometrists like Edwin Y. Endo, O.D. & Associates take great efforts to screen all patients.

The pressure associated with glaucoma is caused by the build-up of fluid within the eye. For patients without glaucoma, this fluid normally exits the eye via a drainage system where the iris and cornea meet. This drainage system does not operate properly in patients with Primary Open-Angle and Angle-Closure glaucoma, hence the pressure increase within the eye.

The symptoms of glaucoma generally include gradual loss of peripheral vision, eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, and reddening of eyes. The causes are primarily genetic (African-Americans and Mexican-Americans are at higher risk of contracting glaucoma), but can be compounded by medical conditions including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and hypothyroidism.

Fortunately, when caught and treated early, glaucoma can be well-managed. If you are concerned about your risks for glaucoma, arrange for an appointment with Oahu’s best optometrist, Dr. Endo! Visit Edwin Y. Endo, O.D. & Associates online to learn more about glaucoma symptoms and causes, or call (808) 487-5500.