Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that may even lead to blindness.
The seriousness of this disease raises a question- Is Glaucoma Cancer?
It is easy to mistake Glaucoma for Cancer of the eye as both diseases share some common symptoms.
But Glaucoma and Cancer are separate diseases.
However, they may have some correlation, according to recent studies.
Let us dive deep into the difference between Glaucoma and Cancer and their correlation.
Is Glaucoma Cancer
No, Glaucoma is not a type of Cancer. It is a type of eye disorder.
Both of these are unique health conditions with different causes and treatments.
Glaucoma and Cancer have overlapping symptoms such as blurry vision, eye discomfort, change in the appearance of the eye, etc.
This confusion and a lack of awareness can lead to the misinterpretation of any serious eye symptom as eye Cancer.
To understand the connection between Glaucoma and blurry vision, read Clearing the Fog: Does Glaucoma Cause Blurry Vision?
Are Glaucoma and Cancer Related
Studies have found that individuals with Glaucoma have a higher risk of developing Cancer.
Inflammation is a common symptom of Glaucoma and can be a contributing factor to the increased chances of Cancer.
In addition to this, Cancer may also lead to certain types of Glaucoma.
Individuals with Intraocular tumors (Cancer of the eye) may develop Glaucoma as a secondary condition.
This may be due to a hindrance to the natural drainage system caused by the tumor’s growth.
Certain radiotherapies performed for Cancer treatment may also result in Glaucoma.
Difference Between Glaucoma and Cancer
Glaucoma is an eye disease that leads to an increase in the internal eye pressure.
This in turn hinders the working of optic nerve and damages it.
On the other hand, Cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells in any part of the body.
Typical eye Cancer symptoms, such as blurred vision, flashing lights, swelling of the eye, etc., may appear suddenly.
Whereas most Glaucoma symptoms develop slowly, you may not even notice them.
The best way to be sure of your disease is to get an eye examination done.
How Serious is Glaucoma
If not treated well, Glaucoma can lead to irreversible damage to the eye and even blindness.
Generally, the initial symptoms of Glaucoma are hardly noticeable.
This is why over half of the patients don’t even realize they have Glaucoma until the later stages of the disease.
Also, there is no permanent cure for the disease.
However, effective Glaucoma treatment can help ease many symptoms of the disease.
Glaucoma Eye Drops can help reduce eye pressure to minimize further damage.
To learn about the side effects of Glaucoma eye drops, read Understanding Glaucoma Eye Drops Side Effects.
Conclusion
Glaucoma and Cancer are two distinct diseases, although they may be correlated.
According to studies, Glaucoma can increase the risk of developing Cancer.
Conversely, individuals with Cancer may also develop Glaucoma due to certain therapies or the growth of the tumor.}
As Glaucoma is incurable, it is important to identify the symptoms early to minimize further damage to the eye.
It is recommended to get your eyes examined frequently by a certified ophthalmologist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Glaucoma be caused by Cancer?
Yes, certain studies ascertain that Glaucoma increases the risk of developing Cancer. This risk is even more prevalent for female patients than for male patients.
What kind of Cancer is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is not a type of Cancer. It is an eye disorder that leads to increased eye pressure, causing damage to the optic nerve
What are the symptoms of Glaucoma Cancer?
A growing Eye Melanoma (Eye Cancer) may cause Glaucoma. The symptoms of Glaucoma include redness, itchiness, and blurred or lost vision.
Is Glaucoma Cancer of the eye?
No, Glaucoma is not a Cancer of the eye. Eye Cancer is a condition where cells multiply abnormally to form a tumor, whereas Glaucoma damages the optic nerve in the eye.
Can I live my life with Glaucoma?
Most patients are able to live an active and fulfilling life even with Glaucoma. However, the severity of your condition and reduced vision may hinder certain everyday activities.
Can Glaucoma be stopped completely?
There is no cure for Glaucoma as of yet. But if detected early, Glaucoma treatment can help prevent vision loss. Most patients with Glaucoma may need to take medications for as long as the condition lasts.
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