Glaucoma is named the “silent thief of sight,” as it causes the gradual damage of the optic nerve and can also result in permanent vision loss. It’s one of the major causes of blindness across the globe, but it is largely preventable if detected early, and appropriate treatment is provided. This is why this blog by Sugam hospital is written, as it shall discuss what causes this condition, symptoms and possible treatments so you are informed on how to preserve your vision.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is not a disease but rather a group of eye conditions characterized by damage to the optic nerve related to the conduction of visual information to the brain. It has been generally associated with elevated intraocular pressure, though sometimes damage occurs without an elevation of the IOP level. If untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness or permanent loss of vision.

Causes Of Glaucoma

While the cause of glaucoma is not always known, a few factors severely increase the risk:

• High Intraocular Pressure: 

The major risk factor is high IOP. It is caused by a collection of aqueous humor; this fluid is present inside the eye due to poor drainage.

• Age: 

Above 60 years of age. Although it may be present at any age, especially among high-risk groups.

• Family History: 

Genetics are important here; people with a family history of glaucoma have a higher propensity of getting glaucoma.

• Medical Conditions: 

Diabetes, hypertension, vascular disease, etc., can increase the risk.

• Eye Injuries: 

Secondary glaucoma can be caused by trauma or injury to the eye.

• Prolonged Steroid Use: 

Long-term steroid use, especially eye drops, can cause glaucoma.

Watch Out For These Signs And Symptoms

Glaucoma often does not exhibit any symptoms at an early stage, which is why it’s crucial to get your eyes checked regularly. And with its progression, the patient often reports of:

• Perimetral field loss: That typically shows up first and often remains unnoticed until severely damaged.
• Blurry vision: May be unilateral or bilateral
• Halos around the lights: It is most commonly noticed at night
• Painful ophthalmos: Seen in acute types such as angle-closure glaucoma.
• Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms feature intense ocular pain and thus represent an emergency.

Treatment Modalities

Management of glaucoma requires immediate treatment. Successful treatment lowers IOP, hence preventing further damage to the optic nerve.

• Medications: Ophthalmic or oral medications either decrease fluid production or increase drainage to lower IOP.
• Laser Treatment: Trabeculoplasty, iridotomy, and other laser treatments enhance outflow of fluid or open up new channels for drainage.
• Surgery: Trabeculectomy or shunt implantation is done in those patients who require a reduction in intraocular pressure.
• Lifestyle Changes: Proper exercise, diet, and stress management would contribute to general eye health.

Prevention And Early Detection

While glaucoma cannot always be prevented, regular eye exams can detect the disease early, especially for high-risk individuals. Adults over 40 should have a comprehensive eye checkup every 1-2 years, including an IOP test and optic nerve evaluation.

This condition is serious, but it can be managed if diagnosed early. Protect your vision by keeping abreast of matters concerning your eye health, taking routine eye exams seriously, and seeking immediate medical attention if you begin to experience the symptoms described above. Remember when it comes to your eyes: the sooner the better. Do not let a silent thief steal away your sight today.