Discover essential information about glaucoma, its risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options. Understanding this silent disease is crucial for early detection and preventing vision loss. Learn how pressure control and medical interventions can protect your eyesight.

Glaucoma encompasses a range of eye disorders characterized by optic nerve damage, which can result in permanent vision impairment. It ranks among the leading causes of blindness globally. Risk factors include age over 40, with higher prevalence among African American and Hispanic populations, especially if there is a family history of the condition.

This disease often develops due to increased intraocular pressure caused by fluid drainage issues within the eye's anterior chamber. Elevated pressure harms the optic nerve fibers that transmit visual information to the brain, leading to gradual vision decline.

Multiple factors escalate the risk of glaucoma, including aging-related decreases in eye drainage efficiency, blockages at drainage angles from lens enlargement, injuries, or other medical conditions, as well as impaired blood flow to the optic nerve. These contribute to nerve damage over time.

Often asymptomatic in early stages, glaucoma can progress silently. Symptoms like blurred vision, eye discomfort, halos around lights, nausea, and vomiting tend to appear in more acute cases.

Treatment aims to lower intraocular pressure via eye drops, laser procedures, or surgical methods. When medication alone isn’t enough, surgical options such as creating alternative drainage pathways can halt nerve damage and safeguard vision.

Note: This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult an eye specialist for diagnosis and personalized treatment options.