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Understanding Glaucoma: The Silent Thief of Sight

Diagram of an eye showing optic nerve and pressure

Glaucoma is often called the 'silent thief of sight' — and for good reason. It typically causes no pain and no noticeable vision loss in its early stages. By the time most people notice something is wrong, permanent damage has already occurred. Understanding glaucoma is the first step toward protecting your vision.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve — the bundle of nerve fibres that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. In most cases, this damage is caused by elevated intraocular pressure (eye pressure). However, some people develop glaucoma even with normal eye pressure, which is why regular exams are so critical.

Types of Glaucoma

  • Open-angle glaucoma: The most common form. It develops slowly and painlessly over many years. Peripheral vision is affected first, which is why people rarely notice until significant vision loss has occurred.
  • Angle-closure glaucoma: Less common but more sudden. It can cause severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and rapid vision changes — and requires emergency treatment.
  • Normal-tension glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure. The cause is not fully understood.

Who Is at Risk?

  • Adults over 60 (risk increases significantly with age)
  • People of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
  • Those with a family history of glaucoma
  • People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease
  • Those who have had previous eye injuries or surgeries
  • People who use corticosteroid medications long-term

How Is Glaucoma Detected?

During a comprehensive eye exam, we measure your intraocular pressure (tonometry), examine the optic nerve, test your peripheral vision (visual field test), and measure the thickness of your cornea. Because glaucoma has no symptoms in its early stages, these tests are the only way to catch it before damage occurs.

Treatment Options

While glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively. Treatment aims to reduce eye pressure and prevent further nerve damage. Options include medicated eye drops (the most common first-line treatment), laser therapy to improve fluid drainage, and surgical procedures for advanced cases.

Early detection makes all the difference. If you haven't had your eye pressure checked recently, book an appointment at Dr. Mickey's Eye Care Centre today.

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