What is Glaucoma and How to Manage 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.