When the passages that normally drain fluid from the eyes become blocked or clogged, pressure builds on the optic nerve and reduces the nerve's ability to transmit messages to the brain. Left untreated, glaucoma can result in partial or complete vision loss. Unfortunately, vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored. People of all races and ages can develop glaucoma. However, research shows that the disease is more prevalent in blacks, those over 40 years of age, those with histories of glaucoma in their families, and those who are very nearsighted or have diabetes.
Treatment consists of eye drops or other medications, and, in some cases, surgery.
If you have glaucoma, your doctor of optometry will recommend a treatment plan to effectively manage the disease. Hypertensive And Diabetic Retinopathy High blood pressure, called hypertension, and diabetes are also more common among African-Americans. These diseases can weaken the vessels that carry blood to your eyes' retinas, the nerve-rich linings of the back of the eyes. Without adequate blood flow, the retinas can become damaged resulting in partial vision loss or blindness. This condition is called retinopathy.