Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased intraocular pressure. It stands as one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. While anyone can develop it, key risk factors include age, family history, diabetes, hypertension, and African ancestry.
The most challenging aspect of this condition is that most people experience absolutely no symptoms during the early stages. Because it steals vision slowly and silently, regular comprehensive eye examinations are the only reliable way to detect glaucoma early, before permanent damage is done.
Depending on the specific condition, treatment typically includes prescription eye drops, laser treatment, or surgery. Although glaucoma cannot usually be cured, early diagnosis and consistent, proactive treatment successfully slow its progression and preserve your remaining vision.
