Most of us face eye problems for many reasons, such as a long time on screens, aging, injuries, genetics, and more.
However, there are cases that require urgent screening and diagnosis to prevent long-term sight damage.
One of these cases is Glaucoma; which needs immediate medical intervention. Let's dive into this case and how to manage Glaucoma and detect it.
Glaucoma is an Umbrella, underneath there is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure (intraocular pressure).
The most common type, primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), develops slowly and has no early symptoms, that’s why many people don’t realize they have it until vision loss occurs. Since early detection is key, regular eye exams are important, especially for those at higher risk.
Glaucoma, also known as "silent thief of sight", typically causes no early symptoms. Vision loss happens gradually, and by the time symptoms appear, irreversible damage may have already occurred.
Common Symptoms in Later Stages
Gradual loss of side vision, also known as "tunnel vision"
Blurred vision
Mild eye pain or pressure
Headaches
Difficulty adjusting to low light
Seeing halos around lights
Emergency Symptoms (Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma)
Severe eye pain
Nausea and vomiting due to extreme eye pressure
Red, swollen, or hard eyeball
Headache, severe, often around the brow
According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making regular eye exams crucial for early detection. Here’s how glaucoma is diagnosed:
1. Eye Pressure Test
A tonometry test measures intraocular pressure (IOP), a key risk factor for glaucoma. While normal eye pressure ranges between 12–21 mmHg, glaucoma can still develop even with 'normal' IOP, making comprehensive eye exams essential for accurate detection.
2. Optic Nerve Examination
An eye doctor inspects the optic nerve for damage using special lenses and imaging. Also, optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) provides detailed 3D scans of the nerve.
3. Visual Field Test
Doctors often check blind spots or peripheral vision loss, which are common signs of glaucoma.
4. Corneal Thickness Test
Thinner corneas can affect eye pressure readings, elevating glaucoma risk.
5. Gonioscopy
This determines whether the drainage angle (where fluid exits the eye) is open or closed, helping classify glaucoma type.
Adults over 40, especially those with a family history of glaucoma.
People with diabetes, high eye pressure, or severe nearsightedness.
Since vision loss from glaucoma is irreversible, early detection through regular eye exams is the best way to prevent blindness.
Eye care should be one of the priorities in your life, especially when facing strange and alarming signs. For this particular case, make your doctor's visits regular to prevent total sight loss.
Integrating structural and functional diagnostic tools with personalized risk stratification enhances diagnostic accuracy.
Nowadays, technologies in the field of Ophthalmology play a crucial role in detecting eye problems, hence making glaucoma management something possible.
Visit Magrabi Eye Hospital to get the correct diagnosis and help manage all sight issues.
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