What Is Glaucoma?

By albert

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Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes damage to the optic nerve. The condition develops as a result of increased pressure within the eye, also called intraocular pressure. The increased pressure damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting images from the retina to the brain for processing. The condition normally appears in people over 40 years old. It seems to have hereditary properties and is linked to diseases like diabetes.

There are two main types of glaucoma: open-angle glaucoma and closed-angle glaucoma. The disease has no early signs or symptoms. Yet, if left untreated, it can lead to permanent blindness in a few years. For this reason, it is called the silent thief of sight. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, up to 12 percent of all cases of blindness can be attributed to glaucoma. This is why people with family history of glaucoma, and those with diabetes and other chronic diseases, should undergo regular eye examinations.

1. Symptoms of Glaucoma

Most people who develop glaucoma have no disease-specific symptoms. Still, there are signs that may indicate that the condition could be developing. The first such signs include poor side or peripheral vision.

Sudden eye pain, blurred vision, appearance of halos around lights, and headache may also develop. Other symptoms of glaucoma include eye redness, narrowed vision, nausea, and vomiting.