Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. Understanding the different types of glaucoma, the risk factors, and the diagnostic and treatment options is crucial for preserving your eyesight.

What Is Glaucoma and How Does It Affect Your Vision?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions characterized by increased pressure within the optic nerve, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). This elevated pressure can damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. If left unmanaged, glaucoma can lead to progressive and irreversible vision loss, starting with peripheral (side) vision and eventually leading to tunnel vision or complete blindness.

The increased eye pressure in glaucoma is typically caused by a buildup of fluid within the eye. Normally, this fluid (called aqueous humor) flows freely through the eye, but in people with glaucoma, the drainage system becomes blocked or impaired, causing the fluid to accumulate and put pressure on the optic nerve.

Different Types of Glaucoma

There are several different types of glaucoma, each with its own unique characteristics and causes:
 

• Open-Angle Glaucoma: This is the most common form of glaucoma, accounting for approximately 90% of cases. In open-angle glaucoma, the drainage angle between the iris and cornea remains open, but the drainage system becomes less efficient over time, leading to a gradual increase in eye pressure.

• Closed-Angle Glaucoma: Also known as angle-closure glaucoma, this type occurs when the drainage angle between the iris and cornea becomes blocked or narrowed, causing a sudden and dramatic increase in eye pressure. This can happen due to the iris being abnormally thick or the eye being naturally small, which can obstruct the drainage angle.

• Secondary Glaucoma: This type of glaucoma is caused by an underlying condition or injury to the eye. Examples include glaucoma associated with cataracts, eye inflammation, eye injuries, or the use of certain medications.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Developing Glaucoma?

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing glaucoma, including:
 

• Age: The risk of glaucoma increases significantly after the age of 60.

• Family history: If you have a close relative with glaucoma, your risk is significantly higher.

• Race: African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos have a higher risk of developing glaucoma.

• Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can increase your risk of glaucoma.

• Eye injuries or eye surgery: Trauma to the eye can lead to the development of secondary glaucoma.

• Certain medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase eye pressure and contribute to glaucoma.

How Glaucoma is Diagnosed 

Regular eye exams are crucial for the early detection of glaucoma. Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, earning it the nickname "the silent thief of sight." By the time vision loss is evident, significant and permanent damage may have already occurred. During routine eye exams, eye doctors can screen for early signs of glaucoma, helping to preserve vision by initiating timely treatment. The earlier glaucoma is detected, the better the chance of preventing its progression and maintaining optimal eye health.
 

Glaucoma is diagnosed through a series of comprehensive tests. One of the most common methods is measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) using a tonometer, as elevated pressure inside the eye is a key indicator of glaucoma. Additionally, a visual field test may be conducted to assess peripheral vision loss, which is often one of the first signs of the condition. Optic nerve imaging and examination through optical coherence tomography (OCT) provide detailed views of the optic nerve, allowing doctors to detect any damage caused by glaucoma. These tests, combined with regular eye exams, play a critical role in diagnosing glaucoma early, ensuring that treatment can be started before significant vision loss occurs.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, your doctor will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. The main goals of glaucoma treatment are to lower your eye pressure and prevent further vision loss. The most common treatment options include:
 

• Medications: Eye drops are often the first line of treatment for glaucoma. These medications work by either reducing the production of fluid in the eye or improving the drainage of fluid, thereby lowering eye pressure.

• Laser surgery: Laser procedures, such as trabeculoplasty or iridotomy, can be used to improve the drainage of fluid from the eye, effectively lowering eye pressure.

• Traditional surgery: If medications and laser treatments are not effective in controlling eye pressure, your eye care professional may recommend traditional surgical procedures, such as trabeculectomy or tube shunt implantation. These surgeries create a new pathway for fluid to drain from the eye, reducing pressure.

In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be necessary to manage your glaucoma effectively. Your doctor will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the type and severity of your glaucoma, as well as your overall health and personal preferences.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam with Opticore Optometry Group Today 

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can have devastating consequences if left untreated. The key to managing glaucoma is early detection and diligent treatment. By taking an active role in your eye health, you can protect your vision and maintain your quality of life.
 

At Opticore Optometry Group, our team of experienced eye care professionals is dedicated to the early detection and comprehensive management of glaucoma. 
 

If you have any concerns about your eye health or are due for a comprehensive eye exam, schedule an appointment with Opticore Optometry Group. Our team of experienced eye care professionals is dedicated to the early detection and comprehensive management of glaucoma. Visit our office in Chino, Redlands, Fontana, or Riverside, California. Please call 866-202-2221 to schedule an appointment today.