Understanding Glaucoma: The Silent Thief of Sight
- BY Ivan Yong
- IN Eye Health
Glaucoma, often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, leading to progressive and irreversible peripheral vision loss. This disease typically develops gradually, often without noticeable symptoms until it reaches advanced stages.
Photo by Julia Fuchs
The Mechanism Behind Glaucoma
The primary cause of glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), which can damage the optic nerve over time. Normally, clear fluid flows in and out of the eye, maintaining a healthy pressure. However, in glaucoma, this fluid fails to drain properly, causing a buildup of pressure that damages the optic nerve fibers.
Types of Glaucoma
There are several types of glaucoma, with the two main categories being open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma.
- Open-angle glaucoma: This is the most common form and develops gradually over time. The drainage angle between the iris and cornea remains open, but the eye becomes less efficient at draining fluid.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: In this type, the drainage angle between the iris and cornea becomes blocked, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. This form of glaucoma requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Unfortunately, glaucoma often presents no symptoms until vision loss has occurred. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection, especially for individuals at higher risk, such as those with a family history of the disease, older adults, and individuals with certain medical conditions like diabetes.
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Treatment and Management
While there is no cure for glaucoma, early detection and treatment can help slow its progression and preserve vision. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Photo by Ksenia Chernaya
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that requires proactive management and regular eye exams for early detection. It is important to visit an optometrist annually to update your glasses and receive a comprehensive check-up on your eye health. By raising awareness and understanding the risk factors and symptoms, we can work towards preserving vision and maintaining eye health worldwide.
