For a long time it was believed that increased intraocular pressure (fluid pressure) within the eye was the sole cause of glaucoma. Whilst this is responsible for the vast majority of glaucoma cases it is not the only cause. In this article I will be discussing the various causes of glaucoma.
Elevated Intraocular Pressure
As discussed above, elevated intraocular pressure is the main cause of glaucoma. In most people high intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve. This then has an adverse effect on vision as the optic nerve cannot transmit visual information to the brain properly. However, some people have very high intraocular pressure but never develop glaucoma.
Diseases That Affect The Blood
Diseases that have an impact on the blood can damage the optic nerve and cause glaucoma. Diabetes and high blood pressure are two of the main culprits. Diabetes is a disease where your blood glucose levels can become extremely high if it is not managed properly. These elevated blood glucose levels can then directly damage the optic nerve and also damage the blood vessels that supply it. High blood pressure has a similar effect and can damage both the optic nerve and its blood vessels.
Eye Injuries
Injuries that cause the eye to suddenly compress can sometimes damage the optic nerve and cause glaucoma. These types of injuries usually occur in sports where a ball or a misplaced body part hit the eye with significant force.
Steroids
Taking certain types of steroid can sometimes lead to the development of glaucoma. Topical steroids that are applied to the eye carry the highest risk and your doctor will monitor you very closely if he prescribes this type of drug. Consuming large amounts of steroids orally can also increase your glaucoma risk but this is normally a temporary condition which subsides once you finish the course of steroids.
Summary
There are a number of ways in which the optic nerve can become damaged. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to determine the exact causes of glaucoma. Many people will develop glaucoma as a result of raised intraocular pressure but not everyone will. Some diabetics will suffer from glaucoma whilst others will avoid it.
The best advice I can give you is to get your eyes tested regularly so that if you do suffer from glaucoma it can be identified as early as possible. Additionally, make sure you exercise regularly and eat a healthy balanced diet. Studies have shown that this can reduce your risk of contracting glaucoma and it also has a soothing effect on diabetes and high blood pressure.