Glaucoma and cataracts are two common eye diseases, particularly in people in their golden years. Although they both affect vision, they are distinct in their origin, evolution, and treatment. Nevertheless, there is a link between the two conditions, both in their coexistence and in their management.
Understanding glaucoma and cataracts
Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, often due to high intraocular pressure. This pressure increases when the fluid in the eye, called aqueous humour, cannot drain properly. Over time, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss, often starting with peripheral vision.
On the other hand, a cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens, the natural eye lens. This condition causes vision to become blurred as if looking through a fogged-up window. Cataracts generally develop with age, although they can also result from injury, certain diseases or prolonged use of steroids.
Link between glaucoma and cataracts
Although glaucoma and cataracts are distinct conditions, there are several points where they come together:
- Shared risk factors: Age is a common risk factor for both diseases. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop one or the other or both. Other factors, such as certain medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension) and long-term use of corticosteroids, can increase the risk of developing both conditions.
- Coexistence: It is common for glaucoma and cataracts to coexist in the same person, especially in the elderly. The presence of one can complicate the management of the other. For example, cataracts can make it more challenging to assess glaucoma, as they impair vision and distort eye pressure test results.
- Combined surgery: For patients suffering from both glaucoma and cataracts, combined surgery is sometimes possible. This surgery removes the cataracts, and a procedure to reduce intraocular pressure is performed. This approach can improve vision and control glaucoma, but it also carries an increased risk of complications.
Although glaucoma and cataracts are distinct conditions, they are often linked by their common risk factors, their frequent coexistence, and the interactions between their treatments. To minimize their impact on vision and quality of life, integrated management and regular monitoring are essential for people with both conditions.
If you have any doubts or vision-related symptoms, it is crucial to consult an Optometrist for an appropriate treatment plan.
