Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically develops gradually and painlessly, without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Many people are unaware they have glaucoma until significant vision loss has already occurred. That’s why understanding this condition and having regular eye check-ups is so important for protecting your vision.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, the crucial part of the eye responsible for sending visual information from the eye to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss, which can progress to total blindness.What causes glaucoma?
The most common cause of glaucoma is an increase in fluid pressure within the eye. Normally, a clear fluid called aqueous humor constantly flows in and out of the eye, nourishing tissues. If the eye makes too much fluid or the drainage system becomes blocked or sluggish, pressure builds up inside the eye, potentially damaging the optic nerve.
Are the symptoms of glaucoma always the same?
No. The symptoms vary depending on the type of glaucoma you have. Here are some common types of glaucoma and the symptoms they cause:
- Open-angle glaucoma – The most common type of glaucoma. The main drainage angle (where the iris and cornea) remains open, but other parts of the drainage system don’t drain as they should. This causes a very gradual increase in eye pressure, that can happen so slowly that it causes no symptoms. You don’t notice it until you have significant vision loss! Vision loss happens gradually, often causing irreversible peripheral vision loss which progresses to tunnel vision and then complete blindness.
- Acute angle-closure glaucoma – This happens when the drainage angle between the iris and cornea is partially or fully blocked. It is a medical emergency characterized by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure, leading to severe eye pain, blurred vision, and potential irreversible vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Normal-tension glaucoma – This type of glaucoma occurs without increased pressure in the eye. We don’t know the exact reason why the optic nerve becomes damaged when eye pressure is healthy. The optic nerve may be more sensitive or experience less blood flow. Limited blood flow may be caused by the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries) or other conditions that damage circulation. This type also usually causes no symptoms until you notice vision loss.
Who is at risk for developing glaucoma?
While anyone can develop glaucoma, even children, some people are at higher risk. This includes:
- Adults over age 60
- People with a family history of glaucoma
- Individuals of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
- Patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease
- Those with severe nearsightedness (myopia)
- Patients who have had previous eye injuries or surgeries
- Patients who use corticosteroid medications, particularly long-term use.
How is glaucoma diagnosed?
Glaucoma is detected through a comprehensive eye exam, which may include:
- Measuring eye pressure (tonometry)
- Examining the optic nerve for damage
- Testing peripheral vision (visual field test)
- Imaging tests to monitor changes
Can glaucoma be treated or prevented?
There is currently no cure for glaucoma, but early diagnosis and treatment can help slow or prevent vision loss.
Treatments usually need to be continued for your lifetime to prevent vision loss.
Treatments can include:
- Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure
- Oral medications
- Laser therapy
- Surgical procedures
Regular eye exams are the best way to detect glaucoma early and protect your vision. If you have risk factors, discuss them with your healthcare provider and schedule routine screenings with your eye doctor.
If you have any questions about glaucoma, please log into your account and send us your question. We are here to help.
Dr. Anita Bennett MD – Health Tip Content Editor