Glaucoma

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that gradually damages the optic nerve, the vital pathway that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma typically develops slowly and without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Because of this, regular eye exams are critical for detecting the disease before permanent vision loss occurs.

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common cause of glaucoma is increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which builds up when fluid inside the eye does not drain properly. However, glaucoma can also develop with normal eye pressure, making comprehensive screening even more important. Key risk factors include:

• Age over 40, especially in individuals of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent
• Family history of glaucoma
• High eye pressure
• Diabetes, high blood pressure, or poor circulation
• Long-term use of corticosteroid medications

Symptoms of Glaucoma

In the early stages, glaucoma rarely presents obvious symptoms. As the disease progresses, patients may notice:

• Loss of peripheral (side) vision
• Blurred or hazy vision
• Eye pain or pressure
• Halos around lights
• Sudden vision loss in acute cases

Because symptoms often appear late, many people may not realize they have glaucoma until significant vision damage has already occurred.

Types of Glaucoma

There are several types of glaucoma, each requiring different treatment approaches:

• Open-Angle Glaucoma – The most common type, developing slowly with subtle vision loss.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma – A less common but more severe form that can cause sudden eye pain and rapid vision loss.
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma – Optic nerve damage occurs even with normal eye pressure.
• Secondary Glaucoma – Caused by another condition, such as eye injury, inflammation, or diabetes.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early detection through comprehensive eye exams, including eye pressure measurement and optic nerve imaging, is the best defense against glaucoma. While there is currently no cure, treatment can help control the disease and preserve vision. Options include:

• Prescription Eye Drops – To lower eye pressure and improve fluid drainage.
• Oral Medications – Sometimes prescribed alongside eye drops.
• Laser Therapy – Helps improve fluid drainage in the eye.
• Surgery – Procedures such as trabeculectomy or drainage implants may be needed in advanced cases.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

Although glaucoma cannot always be prevented, certain steps can reduce risk and protect vision:

• Get regular comprehensive eye exams, especially if you are at high risk.
• Maintain healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
• Exercise regularly to improve circulation.
• Protect eyes from injury with safety eyewear.
• Follow prescribed treatments closely if diagnosed.