What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that damages the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. It usually happens due to high pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP) and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated in time. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma develops gradually, with no early warning signs. By the time symptoms appear, significant vision loss may have already occurred.

Types of Glaucoma

🔹 Open-Angle Glaucoma – The most common type, where eye pressure builds slowly over time without noticeable symptoms.
🔹 Angle-Closure Glaucoma – A sudden and severe increase in eye pressure, causing eye pain, headaches, nausea, and blurry vision (a medical emergency).
🔹 Normal-Tension Glaucoma – Damage to the optic nerve occurs even with normal eye pressure.
🔹 Congenital Glaucoma – A rare type seen in newborns due to a birth defect in the eye’s drainage system.

Symptoms to Watch For

Glaucoma often has no symptoms in its early stages, but as it progresses, you may notice:
✔️ Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
✔️ Blurred vision or halos around lights
✔️ Eye pain or pressure
✔️ Sudden vision loss (in acute cases)

Who is at Risk?

🚨 Anyone can get glaucoma, but some people are at higher risk, including those who:
🔹 Are over 40 years old
🔹 Have a family history of glaucoma
🔹 Have high eye pressure (IOP)
🔹 Have diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease
🔹 Are nearsighted (myopia) or farsighted (hyperopia)

Diagnosis & Treatment

🔍 Comprehensive eye exams are crucial for early detection. Your doctor may check:
✅ Eye pressure (tonometry)
✅ Optic nerve health (OCT scan)
✅ Visual field testing

👁️ Treatment Options:
⚡ Eyedrops – Lower eye pressure and prevent further damage
⚡ Laser Therapy (SLT, ALT, or Cyclophotocoagulation) – Helps drain fluid to reduce pressure
⚡ Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – A safe option for mild to moderate cases
⚡ Traditional Surgery (Trabeculectomy or Shunt Implant) – For advanced or unresponsive glaucoma

Take Action to Save Your Sight!

Glaucoma cannot be reversed, but early diagnosis and treatment can stop further vision loss. Regular eye check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and proper treatment are your best defense.

📅 Book an eye screening today! Don’t let glaucoma steal your vision.