A glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve due to an increase in pressure inside the eye, which is called intraocular pressure (IOP). When detected in the early stages, glaucoma can often be controlled, preventing severe vision loss and blindness. However, symptoms of noticeable vision loss often only occur once the disease has progressed. This is why glaucoma is called “the sneak thief of sight”. Unfortunately, once vision is lost from the disease, it usually cannot be restored. It is, thus, crucial to undergo eye examinations annually to detect glaucoma early.
While anyone can get glaucoma, some traits such as being over 60 years old, of Hispanic/Latino, Asian, or African descent, having a family history of glaucoma, diabetics, and those with eye injuries are at high risk for developing glaucoma.
Treatment depends on the type or severity of glaucoma and can include medicated eye drops, pills, laser procedures, and surgical procedures depending on the type and stage of glaucoma.