Glaucoma

Overview of Glaucoma; Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high intraocular pressure (IOP), which can lead to vision loss if left untreated. The optic nerve plays a crucial role in transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain, and damage to this nerve can result in irreversible vision impairment. The most common type, open-angle glaucoma, develops gradually and painlessly, often without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Another type, angle-closure glaucoma, can develop suddenly and is considered a medical emergency, causing rapid increases in eye pressure that may result in severe pain, blurred vision, and potential permanent vision loss if not treated immediately.

While glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection through regular eye exams is vital for slowing its progression and preserving vision. Since glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms, it’s important to be aware of warning signs like gradual or sudden vision changes, halos or rainbows around lights, sudden and severe eye pain, persistent or sudden redness in the eye, and difficulty adjusting to darkness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to schedule an eye exam with a skilled doctor to assess your eye health and prevent further damage.