Glaucoma FAQs
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure within the eye. It can result in vision loss and blindness if left untreated.
What causes glaucoma?
Glaucoma is often linked to high eye pressure caused by fluid buildup in the front part of the eye. This pressure damages the optic nerve over time.
What are the types of glaucoma?
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): This is the most common form of glaucoma, where the eye’s drainage canals gradually become clogged, leading to increased eye pressure and optic nerve damage over time.
- Normal Tension Glaucoma (NTG): NTG is a form of glaucoma where optic nerve damage occurs despite having normal eye pressure (less than 21mmHg), suggesting that factors other than high pressure can contribute to the condition.
- Primary Closed Angle Glaucoma: Occurs when the angle where fluid drains from the eye narrows or closes.
- Secondary Glaucoma: Secondary glaucoma results from an underlying eye condition or injury that increases eye pressure, such as inflammation, trauma, or the use of certain medications.
- Congenital Glaucoma: Congenital glaucoma is a rare form present at birth, caused by developmental issues in the eye’s drainage system, leading to high eye pressure and vision problems early in life.
What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
Early stages of primary glaucoma typically have no symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are crucial.
As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Peripheral vision loss
- Blurred vision
- Halo effects around lights
- Eye pain or redness
Is glaucoma treatable?
Glaucoma can be managed and treated to slow down or prevent further vision loss. All treatment for glaucoma aims to lower your eye pressure.
Treatments aim to lower your eye pressure, some options include:
- Eye drops
- Regular eye clinic visits
If glaucoma is diagnosed and treated fairly quickly, you may not experience much change in your vision.
Is there a way to prevent glaucoma?
While glaucoma cannot be prevented entirely, regular eye exams, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and managing underlying health conditions can reduce the risk of developing the condition.
What should I do if I suspect I have glaucoma?
If you experience symptoms like sudden vision changes, eye pain, or notice halos around lights, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in managing glaucoma and preserving vision.