Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually associated with raised pressure inside the eye. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, and because vision loss is typically gradual and painless, many cases are only detected once significant damage has occurred.

• Most common (chronic open-angle) form: gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision, often unnoticed until advanced, with normal central vision preserved until late
• Acute angle-closure glaucoma (less common): sudden severe eye pain, redness, blurred vision, headache, nausea, and vomiting — a medical emergency
• Once vision is lost to glaucoma, it cannot be recovered, which is why early detection through screening is important

• Most commonly associated with raised pressure inside the eye, which damages the optic nerve over time.
• Risk is increased by older age, a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, and short-sightedness or long-sightedness.
• Acute angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the drainage angle of the eye suddenly becomes blocked.

• Diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, including measurement of eye pressure, examination of the optic nerve, and assessment of the visual field for early loss of peripheral vision.
• Because early glaucoma often causes no symptoms, regular eye screening — particularly for people over 40 or with a family history — is important for early detection.
• Acute angle-closure glaucoma is diagnosed urgently based on the sudden onset of severe eye pain, redness, and a firm, tender eye on examination.

Chronic (open-angle) glaucoma is managed with eye drops that lower eye pressure, most commonly a prostaglandin analogue or a beta-blocker eye drop, used consistently and usually lifelong to slow or halt further optic nerve damage.

Regular follow-up with eye pressure checks and visual field testing is needed to confirm the treatment is working and to adjust it if the disease is progressing.

Laser treatment or surgery may be used at specialist level for glaucoma that is not adequately controlled with eye drops alone.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency requiring urgent referral for pressure-lowering medicine and definitive laser or surgical treatment to prevent rapid, permanent vision loss.

• Attend regular eye examinations, especially from age 40 onward or with a family history of glaucoma.
• Take prescribed eye drops consistently and exactly as directed, since missed doses allow eye pressure to rise.
• Seek immediate care for sudden severe eye pain, redness, or vision change, as this may indicate an acute glaucoma emergency.
• Inform family members if you are diagnosed with glaucoma, as they may be at higher risk and benefit from screening.