Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition that damages the optic nerve, which is vital for good vision. The word “Glaucoma” comes from the Ancient Greek term “glaukos” which means “shimmering.” Glaucoma is usually caused by drastically high pressure in the eye. This condition may cause vision loss that can’t be recovered. This condition has been called the “silent thief” as the vision loss occurs slowly over a long period. In cases where it is recognised in the early stages, vision loss can be prevented or slowed down. The most common type of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma which usually occurs in wide-angle called ‘chronic simple’. Open-angle glaucoma develops slowly without pain. In this type of glaucoma, the drainage angle for fluid within the eye stays open. When someone is diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma, their peripheral vision may start decreasing, followed by the central image, and it may result in blindness when not treated.

There are also two other common types of glaucoma: closed-angle glaucoma and normal-tension glaucoma. Closed-angle glaucoma may occur suddenly or gradually. If it appears suddenly, it may bring severe eye pain, mid-dilated pupil, eye redness, blurred vision, and nausea. Closed-angle glaucoma is usually shared among women. Glaucoma-affected eyes have a common name of glaucomatous. Once the vision loss caused by glaucoma occurs, it is permanent and can’t be treated.

If you have glaucoma without vision loss, you will likely need to have permanent treatment for the rest of your life. To prevent glaucoma, it is essential to get your eyes regularly checked. It is usually advised to have an eye test at least once in 2 years. Around the globe, 70 million people are facing glaucoma, and it is widespread in older people. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness following cataracts.