Glaucoma Awareness Month

Vision is a fundamental sense that shapes our perception of the world. Yet, certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma can cause a significant risk to the aspect of our well-being. Often labeled as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is a type of progressive eye disease that, if untreated, can lead to irreversible vision loss and blindness. In this blog, we will explore the essentials in glaucoma: what it is, what are its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition that slowly damages the optic nerve, the link between the eye and the brain. This condition results in damage that is typically caused by elevated pressure withing the eye. This tension is called intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve is responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain. When the optic is damaged by an excessive accumulation of aqueous humor (liquid in the eye) and IOP, vision can be permanently damaged or completely lost.

Types of Glaucoma:

There are several different reasons glaucoma can develop. They can range anywhere from a birth defect to abnormal formation of the eye, trauma, or even drug usage. While there are various causes for the development of glaucoma, there are two main disease forms: Open Angle and Angle Closure.

Open Angle:

Open angle glaucoma is the most common form. It develops slowly, with drainage angle in the eye remaining open, and over time, the trabecular meshwork becomes less and less efficient in draining the aqueous humor. Since drainage is diminished, the buildup of fluid over time causes pressure in the eye to increase and results in vision loss.

Angle Closure/Acute Angle:

This type of glaucoma occurs when the drainage angle in the eye becomes completely blocked, leading to a rapid and sudden increase in intraocular pressure. It can be acute or chronic and often require immediate medical attention. If there is a lack of medical assistance, an angle closure can lead to permanent vision loss.

Risks and Causes:

While the exact cause of glaucoma is not always clear, here are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

Elevated pressure (IOP)

Age: The risk of glaucoma increases with age, especially after the age of 60.

Family History: If your family has a medical history of glaucoma, it increases your likelihood of devolving it later in life.

Ethnicity: Certain ethic groups, such as African Americans and Hispanics are at a higher risk.

Diabetes

Symptoms:

In the early stages, glaucoma often presents itself with no noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience:

Gradual Loss of Peripheral Vision

Blurred Vision

Difficulty Focusing on Objects

Halos Around Lights

Severe Eye Pain and Frequent Headaches

Treatment:

Because glaucoma is such a stealthy medical condition, regular exams are crucial for finding an early diagnosis. Eye care professionals use various tests, including tonometry, vision field testing, optic nerve imaging to diagnose glaucoma.

While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are several treatments options to relieve any pressure and fluid to prevent any further eye damage. Treatments include:

Medication and Eyedrops

Laser Therapy: Procedures like laser trabeculoplasty, or laser iridotomy can improve drainage.

Surgery: In some cases, surgical interventions are necessary to create new drainage channels.

The Silent Thief of Sight

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that requires a prompt diagnosis and treatment. By raising awareness, and educating ourselves, we can take steps to preserve and protect our eyesight. If you have any concerns about your eye health, consult with an eye specialist for personalized guidance. Remember, your eyesight is precious, do not let glaucoma steal it away unnoticed.

For any additional medical information, you can visit these sources:

https://glaucoma.org/january-is-glaucoma-awareness-month/ 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/glaucoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20372839 

https://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/resources/features/glaucoma-awareness.html