Understanding Glaucoma: The "Sneak Thief of Sight" - Part 1
Glaucoma, often referred to as the “sneak thief of sight”. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. The optic nerve is the crucial pathway that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage to the optic nerve can lead to irreversible vision loss, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
How Does Glaucoma Occur?
- Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP): The primary risk factor for glaucoma is elevated pressure within the eye. This is called Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP). The IOP is caused by a buildup of fluid within the eye’s front chamber.
- Fluid Drainage Issues: Normally, fluid flows through a network of channels called the trabecular meshwork and out of the eye. In glaucoma, this drainage system becomes blocked, leading to increased IOP.
- Optic Nerve Damage: The elevated pressure puts excessive stress on the optic nerve, gradually damaging its delicate fibers.
Types of Glaucoma:
- Open-Angle Glaucoma: This is the most common type, characterized by a gradual blockage of the drainage channels.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A less common but more severe type, where the angle between the iris (the colored part of the eye) and the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) narrows, blocking fluid flow.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal or low eye pressure.
- Congenital Glaucoma: A rare form present at birth.
Symptoms of Glaucoma:
- Early Stages: Glaucoma often has no noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
- Later Stages: As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
- Loss of peripheral vision (side vision)
- Blurred vision
- Halos around lights
- Eye pain (in acute angle-closure glaucoma)
- Headaches
Stay tuned for Part 2 of Understanding Glaucoma where we will review risk factors, treatment and tips for living with Glaucoma. If you are at risk for glaucoma or experience any vision changes, consult an eye doctor immediately.
Resources:
- Glaucoma Research Foundation:
- Website: https://glaucoma.org/
- National Eye Institute
- Website: https://www.nei.nih.gov/
- The Glaucoma Foundation:
- Website: https://glaucomafoundation.org/