Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve, typically caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). It’s called the “silent thief” because it often shows no symptoms until permanent vision loss occurs.
Types of Glaucoma
1. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG)
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Accounts for 90% of cases
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Slow, symptom-free progression
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Gradual peripheral vision loss
2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma
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Medical emergency
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Sudden symptoms:
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Severe eye pain
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Nausea/vomiting
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Blurred vision
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Halos around lights
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Requires immediate treatment
Key Risk Factors
✔ Age over 60
✔ Family history of glaucoma
✔ African/Hispanic/Asian ancestry
✔ Diabetes or hypertension
✔ High myopia (nearsightedness)
✔ Long-term steroid use
Warning Signs
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Tunnel vision (late stage)
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Eye pain or redness
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Sudden vision disturbances
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Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
Diagnostic Tests
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Tonometry (eye pressure measurement)
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Ophthalmoscopy (optic nerve exam)
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Perimetry (visual field test)
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Gonioscopy (angle examination)
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OCT (optic nerve imaging)
Treatment Options
Medications
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Prostaglandin analogs (first-line)
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Beta-blockers
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Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
Laser Therapies
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Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
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Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)
🩺 Surgical Procedures
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Trabeculectomy
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Glaucoma drainage implants
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Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Prevention & Management
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Comprehensive eye exams every 1-2 years after age 40
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Strict adherence to prescribed eye drops
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Regular monitoring of optic nerve health
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Control of systemic conditions (diabetes, hypertension)
Critical Facts
⚠ Vision loss from glaucoma is permanent
⚠ Early detection can prevent blindness
⚠ Treatment can only stop progression, not reverse damage
⚠ Lifelong monitoring is essential
