Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. The most common form of glaucoma is called primary open-angle glaucoma, which occurs when the drainage channels in the eye become clogged. This leads to an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), which can damage the optic nerve.
Symptoms of glaucoma often do not appear until significant damage has already occurred, which is why it is often referred to as the “sneak thief of sight.” In its early stages, it may cause no symptoms or only mild vision loss. As the disease progresses, people may experience tunnel vision or even blindness.
Risk factors for developing glaucoma include increasing age, family history of the disease, African American descent, and high intraocular pressure. Other risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, and nearsightedness.
There are several types of glaucoma, each with its causes and risk factors. For example, angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the drainage channels in the eye become blocked, while normal-tension glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve is damaged even though the intraocular pressure is within a normal range.
There is no cure for glaucoma, but early detection and treatment can help to slow the progression of the disease and prevent vision loss. Treatment options include medications, such as eye drops, to lower intraocular pressure, and surgery. It is important for people at high risk for glaucoma to have regular eye exams, as early detection and treatment can help to prevent vision loss If you have any symptoms of glaucoma or are at high risk for the disease, it is important to see an eye doctor for a thorough examination.
In conclusion, glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. It is often referred to as the “sneak thief of sight” because symptoms do not appear until significant damage has already occurred. Risk factors include increasing age, family history, African American descent, and high intraocular pressure. Early detection and treatment can slow the progression of the disease and prevent vision loss. People at high risk need to have regular eye exams.
