What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve, which sends visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is often linked to pressure building up inside the eye when fluid does not drain properly.
Many forms of glaucoma develop slowly over time and may not cause symptoms at first. Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss.
Glaucoma happens when pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve. Certain factors may increase your risk, including:
- Older age
- Family history of glaucoma
- High pressure inside the eye
- African American, Hispanic, or Asian ancestry
- Medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- Long-term steroid medication use
Symptoms
Glaucoma often develops quietly, especially in the early stages. Regular eye exams are important because many people do not notice changes in their vision right away.
Common symptoms may include:
- Gradual loss of side vision
- Blurred vision
- Blind spots
- Trouble seeing clearly in low light
Some types of glaucoma can appear suddenly and require emergency care. Symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma may include:
- Severe eye pain
- Sudden vision changes
- Halos around lights
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
How is it diagnosed?
Eye specialists use several tests to check for glaucoma and monitor eye health. A complete eye exam may include measuring eye pressure, examining the optic nerve, testing side vision, and dilating the pupils to look inside the eye.
Because glaucoma may not cause symptoms early on, routine eye exams are one of the best ways to detect the condition before vision loss occurs.
How is it treated?
While glaucoma cannot be cured, treatment can help slow or prevent further damage to the optic nerve. The goal of treatment is to lower pressure inside the eye and protect vision.
Treatment options may include:
- Prescription eye drops
- Oral medications
- Laser treatment to improve fluid drainage
- Surgery to reduce eye pressure
- Drainage implants or shunts for more advanced cases
Many people manage glaucoma successfully with ongoing care and regular follow-up visits. Early treatment can make a significant difference in preserving eyesight.
