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Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is often associated with increased pressure within the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and can progress gradually over time, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss and blindness.

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Types of Glaucoma:

  • Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): This is the most common form of glaucoma and typically develops gradually over time. In POAG, the drainage angle of the eye becomes less efficient at draining fluid (aqueous humor), leading to a gradual increase in intraocular pressure and damage to the optic nerve.
  • Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Also known as closed-angle glaucoma or narrow-angle glaucoma, this form of glaucoma occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, causing a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. Angle-closure glaucoma can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (gradual onset) and requires immediate medical attention to prevent vision loss.
  • Normal-Tension Glaucoma: In this type of glaucoma, optic nerve damage occurs despite normal intraocular pressure. The exact cause of normal-tension glaucoma is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve factors such as reduced blood flow to the optic nerve or increased susceptibility of the optic nerve to damage.
  • Secondary Glaucoma: Secondary glaucoma refers to glaucoma that develops as a result of another eye condition or underlying medical condition, such as eye trauma, inflammation, or certain medications.

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Symptoms of Glaucoma:

In the early stages, glaucoma often does not cause noticeable symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight.” As the condition progresses, however, symptoms may include:

  • Gradual loss of peripheral vision (tunnel vision)
  • Blurred vision
  • Halos around lights
  • Eye pain or redness
  • Headaches
  • Nausea or vomiting (in acute angle-closure glaucoma)

Treatment of Glaucoma:

While there is currently no cure for glaucoma, treatment aims to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment options may include:

  • Eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure
  • Oral medications
  • Laser therapy (such as trabeculoplasty or iridotomy)
  • Microsurgery (such as trabeculectomy or shunt implantation)

Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing glaucoma and preventing vision loss. Regular eye exams, including measurement of intraocular pressure and assessment of the optic nerve, are essential for detecting glaucoma in its early stages when treatment is most effective. If you have risk factors for glaucoma or experience any symptoms, it’s important to consult an eye care professional promptly for evaluation and appropriate management.

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