Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that progressively damages the optic nerve, the structure that carries visual information to the brain.

It is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide.

50% of people with glaucoma do not know they have it.

Early diagnosis can prevent vision loss in most cases.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma affects the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting images to the brain. In most cases, the damage is caused by increased intraocular pressure, which leads to gradual vision loss and, in advanced stages, blindness.

Types of Glaucoma:

🔹 Open-angle glaucoma: The most common type. It develops slowly, with no obvious symptoms until peripheral vision begins to deteriorate.
🔹 Angle-closure glaucoma: Occurs when the drainage of aqueous humour is suddenly blocked, causing a sharp rise in eye pressure. It is an eye emergency that requires immediate care.
🔹 Congenital glaucoma: Affects babies and children due to abnormal development of the eye's drainage system.
🔹 Secondary glaucoma: Can result from other eye diseases, injuries or prolonged use of corticosteroids.

In its early stages, glaucoma may cause no symptoms

Glaucoma is known as "the silent thief of sight" because in many cases it causes no symptoms until vision loss is significant. However, some warning signs include:

✅ Gradual loss of peripheral vision
✅ Blurred vision
✅ Eye pain or redness (in angle-closure glaucoma)
✅ Halos around lights
✅ Nausea and vomiting in acute cases

If you notice any of these symptoms or have a family history of glaucoma, it is essential to have an eye examination.

Options to control the disease and preserve your vision

Glaucoma has no cure, but the right treatment can slow its progression.

Treatment options:

🔹 Pressure-lowering eye drops: Reduce eye pressure and help prevent further damage to the optic nerve.
🔹 Laser treatment: Techniques such as trabeculoplasty can improve the drainage of aqueous humour.
🔹 Glaucoma surgery: Recommended in advanced cases or when previous treatments have not been effective.

Treatment must be personalised and supervised by a specialist ophthalmologist.