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Glaucoma: A Silent Threat to Vision

Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive eye disease that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. It occurs when the pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve.

Causes of Glaucoma

While the exact cause of glaucoma is often unknown, several factors can increase your risk, including:

Age: Older adults are more susceptible.

Family history: A family history of glaucoma increases the risk.

Diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk.

High blood pressure: High blood pressure can damage the optic nerve.

Race: Certain races, such as African Americans, have a higher risk.

Eye injuries: Eye injuries can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.

Certain medications: Some medications, like corticosteroids, can increase the risk.

Types of Glaucoma

There are two main types of glaucoma:

Open-angle glaucoma: The most common type, it progresses gradually with few noticeable symptoms.

Angle-closure glaucoma: A more acute type, with symptoms like eye pain, nausea, vomiting, and seeing halos around lights.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

In the early stages, glaucoma often has no symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may experience:

Blurred vision, especially in peripheral vision

Halos around lights

Decreased night vision

Eye pain

Headaches

Nausea and vomiting (in acute cases)

Diagnosing Glaucoma

An ophthalmologist will diagnose glaucoma through a comprehensive eye exam. Tests may include:

Intraocular pressure measurement: To measure the pressure inside the eye

Gonioscopy: To examine the angle between the iris and cornea

Perimetry: To assess your field of vision

Optic nerve imaging: To evaluate damage to the optic nerve

Treating Glaucoma

The goal of glaucoma treatment is to lower eye pressure and prevent further vision loss. Treatment options may include:

Medications: Eye drops to lower eye pressure

Laser surgery: To create a new drainage pathway for fluid in the eye

Traditional surgery: In cases where medications and laser treatments are ineffective

Preventing Glaucoma

While not all cases of glaucoma can be prevented, the following steps can reduce your risk:

Regular eye exams: Especially for those over 40 and with a family history of glaucoma

Managing underlying conditions: Such as diabetes and high blood pressure

Maintaining a healthy diet

Regular exercise

Wearing protective eyewear

Glaucoma is a serious condition that can lead to blindness. Early detection and treatment are essential. If you have any concerns, consult an ophthalmologist.