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)
Accounts for 90% of cases
Slow, symptom-free progression
Gradual peripheral vision loss
2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Medical emergency
Sudden symptoms:
Severe eye pain
Nausea/vomiting
Blurred vision
Halos around lights
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
Tunnel vision (late stage)
Eye pain or redness
Sudden vision disturbances
Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
Diagnostic Tests
Tonometry (eye pressure measurement)
Ophthalmoscopy (optic nerve exam)
Perimetry (visual field test)
Gonioscopy (angle examination)
OCT (optic nerve imaging)
Treatment Options
Medications
Prostaglandin analogs (first-line)
Beta-blockers
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
Laser Therapies
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)
🩺 Surgical Procedures
Trabeculectomy
Glaucoma drainage implants
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Prevention & Management
Comprehensive eye exams every 1-2 years after age 40
Strict adherence to prescribed eye drops
Regular monitoring of optic nerve health
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
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