Understanding Glaucoma: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. This nerve is important because it sends visual information from your eye to your brain. Often, glaucoma is linked to high eye pressure. However, it can also occur with normal eye pressure. Over time, glaucoma can lead to vision loss or even blindness if not treated. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Early detection is key to protecting your sight.

Common Symptoms of Glaucoma

Many people do not notice symptoms in the early stages. Because of this, glaucoma is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight.” Still, some signs may appear as the disease progresses. For example, you might notice:

Blurred vision

Loss of side (peripheral) vision

Halos around lights

Eye pain or pressure

Redness in the eye

Nausea or vomiting (with severe eye pain)

If you notice any of these symptoms, see an eye doctor right away. Early signs of glaucoma can be subtle, so regular eye exams are important.

Causes and Risk Factors

Glaucoma often develops when fluid builds up in the front part of the eye. This extra fluid increases eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve. However, not everyone with high eye pressure gets glaucoma. Several risk factors can raise your chances, such as:

Age over 60 years

Family history of glaucoma

High eye pressure

Being of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent

Having certain medical conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure

Thin corneas

Eye injuries or certain eye surgeries

Knowing your risk can help you take steps to protect your vision.

How Glaucoma is Diagnosed

Eye doctors use several tests to check for glaucoma. Usually, these tests are quick and painless. For instance, your doctor may:

Measure your eye pressure (tonometry)

Check your side vision (visual field test)

Examine your optic nerve (using special lenses)

Measure the thickness of your cornea

Look at the drainage angle in your eye

Regular eye exams are the best way to catch glaucoma early. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends eye checks every 1–2 years, especially if you are at higher risk.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment can help slow or prevent vision loss. Your doctor will choose the best plan for you. Common glaucoma treatment options include:

Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure

Oral medications

Laser therapy to improve fluid drainage

Surgery to create a new drainage path

Because each person is different, your doctor may adjust your treatment over time. It is important to use your medicine as directed and keep all follow-up visits.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

Although you cannot always prevent glaucoma, some healthy habits may help protect your eyes. For example:

Get regular eye exams, even if you have no symptoms

Know your family history of eye diseases

Wear eye protection during sports or risky activities

Manage health problems like diabetes and high blood pressure

Eat a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and fish

Exercise regularly, but avoid activities that raise eye pressure

Early action can make a big difference. Talk to your eye doctor about how to prevent glaucoma and keep your eyes healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can glaucoma be cured?

No, glaucoma cannot be cured. However, treatment can slow or stop vision loss if started early.

Is glaucoma painful?

Most types of glaucoma cause no pain. However, a rare type called acute angle-closure glaucoma can cause severe eye pain and needs urgent care.

Who should get tested for glaucoma?

Anyone over age 40, or with risk factors, should have regular eye exams. Early testing helps catch glaucoma before vision loss occurs.

Can I prevent glaucoma?

You cannot always prevent glaucoma, but regular eye exams, a healthy lifestyle, and managing existing health conditions can help lower your risk.

In summary, glaucoma is a serious eye disease that can lead to vision loss. However, early detection and treatment are crucial in protecting your sight. Consult an eye specialist at Jay Netra Kendra for personalised advice on glaucoma prevention and care.