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Understanding Glaucoma: The Silent Threat to Vision

Writer's picture: Elizabeth HuntElizabeth Hunt

What is Glaucoma Eye Exam
Understanding Glaucoma: The Silent Threat to Vision

Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that can lead to irreversible vision loss or blindness if left untreated. As the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, it’s crucial to raise awareness about this silent threat to eye health. 


Who is most at risk of Glaucoma? 


Glaucoma is more common in individuals aged 40 and older, with congenital types being a notable exception. It is estimated that around 10% of people aged 75 and above have glaucoma. Primary open-angle glaucoma is more prevalent among Black individuals, particularly those of Afro-Caribbean heritage. People of African descent are 15 times more likely to experience blindness from open-angle glaucoma. Additionally, angle-closure glaucoma is more common in people of Asian or Inuit ancestry. Individuals assigned female at birth are at a greater risk of developing angle-closure glaucoma, likely due to anatomical differences related to sex. Nearsighted individuals (myopia) are more prone to open-angle glaucoma, while farsighted individuals (hyperopia) are more susceptible to angle-closure glaucoma.A family history of glaucoma, particularly in first-degree relatives such as parents, siblings, or children, significantly increases the risk. Moreover, genetic factors contribute to some conditions associated with secondary glaucoma. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, have been linked to a higher likelihood of developing glaucoma.


What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which is vital for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. The primary culprit behind this damage is often elevated eye pressure, though individuals with normal eye pressure can also develop glaucoma. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection, as glaucoma often has no initial symptoms. If you fall into any of the risk categories above, especially if your vision is otherwise normal, it is recommended that you visit the eye doctor yearly for a routine check. 



Identifying Glaucoma Symptoms


Glaucoma often progresses quietly during its initial phases, but as it advances, some noticeable signs may emerge:


  • Vision that appears blurry or cloudy

  • Seeing halos or glowing rings around lights, particularly during nighttime

  • Struggling to see clearly in dimly lit environments

  • Red, painful eyes without any noticeable discharge

  • Eye discomfort or ache that can extend to the head

  • Episodes of nausea and vomiting

  • Abrupt loss of vision, typically in one eye

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s crucial to seek immediate attention from an eye care specialist.


Causes of Glaucoma

The exact cause of glaucoma remains unclear in many cases, but key factors include:

  • An abnormality in the eye’s drainage system causing fluid buildup

  • Increased eye pressure

  • Family history or genetic predisposition



Types of Glaucoma

The types of glaucoma are largely differentiated by the cause of the optic nerve damage: 

  1. Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common type, where fluid drains too slowly through the trabecular meshwork, leading to a gradual increase in eye pressure.

  2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Aka narrow-angle glaucoma, this occurs when the drainage space between the iris and cornea becomes too narrow, blocking fluid drainage and causing a rapid pressure buildup.

  3. Secondary glaucoma: Another condition or event causes the raise in eye pressure, leading to glaucoma. Potential causes include eye injuries, pigmentary dispersion syndrome, uveitis, certain medications (like corticosteroids or cycloplegics), and prior eye procedures.

    1. Uveitis is a form of eye inflammation that can be caused by infection, injury, autoimmune disease or other factors. 

  4. Congenital glaucoma: This form is present at birth due to developmental abnormalities during fetal growth. 



The Role of Eye Pressure

High eye pressure doesn’t always lead to glaucoma, but it’s a significant risk factor. Research indicates that lowering eye pressure can prevent further vision loss in glaucoma patients. Regular comprehensive dilated eye exams can help determine your baseline eye pressure and identify any abnormalities early on. Have you ever been to the eye doctor and had the ‘eye puff’ test? This is where they use a machine to either blow a puff of air into your eye or (in a new, fancy office) a special type of laser that “pings” your eye. These test measure the pressure in your eye and tell the doctor if you are in normal ranges. If you’ve never been, and you fall into a risk factor, go schedule your appointment today. 



Treatment Options for Glaucoma

Although there’s no cure for glaucoma, early treatment can help preserve vision. Common treatments include:

  • Prescription Eye Drops: These reduce eye pressure and prevent the disease from worsening.

  • Laser Therapy and Surgery: In some cases, these options may be recommended to improve fluid drainage.

It’s important to adhere to your treatment plan, even if you don’t have noticeable symptoms. Untreated glaucoma can lead to blindness if the optic nerve becomes too badly damaged.


Prevention and Early Detection

Regular eye exams are the best defense against glaucoma. A comprehensive dilated eye exam allows your doctor to measure your eye pressure, check for optic nerve damage, and assess fluid drainage. Early detection is key to managing glaucoma effectively and preserving your vision.


Questions to Ask Your Doctor

When diagnosed with glaucoma, it’s essential to be proactive about your care. Consider asking your doctor:

  • What type of glaucoma do I have?

  • How often should I schedule checkups?

  • What are my treatment options?

  • What happens if I don’t get treated?

  • How will I know if my treatment is effective?

  • Are there any potential side effects from treatment?

  • Does glaucoma increase my risk for other eye diseases?

  • What can I expect for my vision over time?

  • Are there activities I should avoid?


Conclusion

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that requires vigilance and proactive care. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options can empower you to take charge of your eye health. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule regular eye exams and consult your doctor if you have any concerns. Early intervention can make all the difference in preserving your vision.



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