Glaucoma

Introduction: Why glaucoma matters in Africa?

Imagine waking up one day and realizing that your vision is slowly fading without any warning. This is the reality of glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. In Africa, where access to eye care is often limited, glaucoma is a major health concern. According to the world health organization (WHO), nearly 4.5 million people globally are blind due to glaucoma, with a significant number coming from Africa. Many Africans, especially those over 40 years old, have glaucoma but are unaware because it develops slowly and painlessly. By the time they notice, it may be too late to save their sight.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve (the nerve that sends visual information from your eyes to your brain). This damage is usually caused by high pressure inside the eye (also known as intraocular pressure or IOP). If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness.

Who is at risk?

Some people have a higher risk of developing glaucoma than others. You are at risk if you:

  • Are over 40 years old
  • Have a family history of glaucoma
  • Have diabetes (a common condition in Africa that affects millions)
  • Have suffered an eye injury
  • Have high blood pressure (which is increasingly common due to diet and lifestyle changes)

How common is glaucoma in Africa?

Glaucoma is alarmingly common in Africa, and studies suggest that Africans have a higher risk of developing severe forms of the disease. A study found that about 5% of people over 40 years old in Ghana and Nigeria have glaucoma, and nearly one in five people with the disease will become blind in both eyes if untreated. Unfortunately, many people do not know they have glaucoma until their vision is already damaged.

Types of glaucoma?

There are different types of glaucoma, but the most common ones include:

  • Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG): The most common type. It develops slowly and painlessly, causing gradual vision loss. Many people do not notice it until it is too late.
  • Acute angle-closure glaucoma: A medical emergency that causes sudden eye pain, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. Immediate treatment is needed to prevent blindness.
  • Congenital glaucoma: Some babies are born with glaucoma due to defects in the eye. If untreated, it can lead to permanent blindness.
  • Secondary glaucoma: This occurs due to injury, cataracts, or eye tumors. People with a history of eye problems should get regular checkups.

Myths and misconceptions about glaucoma?

Many Africans believe wrong information about glaucoma, which stops them from seeking help. Here are some common myths:

  • Myth: “Blindness is a normal part of aging.”
  • Truth: Glaucoma-related blindness is preventable with early treatment.
  • Myth: “Once you have eye surgery, you will go blind.” • Truth: Surgery can help save your vision if done early.
  • Myth: “Children with glaucoma cannot be treated.”
  • Truth: If treated early, children with glaucoma can still live normal lives.

How is glaucoma diagnosed?

The only way to know if you have glaucoma is to get an eye test. A doctor can check for glaucoma through:

  • Eye pressure tests
  • Examination of the optic nerve
  • Visual field tests to check for blind spots
  • Eye imaging tests to assess nerve damage

How is glaucoma treated?

Although glaucoma cannot be cured, treatment can slow down or stop vision loss. Treatment options include:

Medications (eye drops or pills)

  • These help to reduce eye pressure.
  • They must be used every day to be effective.

Laser treatment

  • A simple laser procedure can help drain fluid from the eye and lower pressure.

Surgery

  • If medications and laser treatments don’t work, surgery can create a new drainage path for eye fluid.
  • This can save the remaining vision if done early.

How can you prevent glaucoma?

Even though glaucoma cannot always be prevented, you can lower your risk by:

  • Getting regular eye checkups (especially if you are over 40 or have a family history)
  • Eating healthy foods (such as green leafy vegetables, carrots, and fish)
  • Controlling conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure
  • Wearing protective eyewear to avoid eye injuries
  • Avoiding excessive use of steroid medications without a doctor’s advice

Final words: Protect your sight before it’s too late!

Glaucoma is a silent thief of sight. It slowly steals your vision without warning. Many people in Africa become blind simply because they did not get an eye checkup on time. If you are over 40 years old, have diabetes, or a family history of glaucoma, make sure to visit an eye clinic regularly.