By Jorge A. Montes, MD, FACS
DHR Health Eye Institute
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause damage to the optic nerve and result in vision loss. It is often referred to as “the silent thief of sight” because it typically has no symptoms in its early stages and can progress without the person noticing any changes in vision. The most common form of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma, is caused by an increase in pressure within the eye that can damage the optic nerve.
Risk factors for glaucoma include age (it is more common in people over 60), family history, being of African descent, and having certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension. People who have had an eye injury or have had certain types of eye surgery are also at an increased risk of developing glaucoma.
There are several types of glaucoma, each with different causes. In primary open-angle glaucoma, the fluid in the eye (known as the aqueous humor) is not able to drain properly. This leads to an increase in pressure within the eye, which can damage the optic nerve. In angle-closure glaucoma, the drainage angle in the eye is blocked, which also leads to an increase in pressure. Secondary glaucoma is caused by another underlying condition, such as diabetes, inflammation, or a tumor.
Treatment for glaucoma typically involves medication to lower the pressure in the eye, such as eye drops or pills, or laser surgery. In some cases, surgery may be required to create a new drainage channel so the fluid in the eye can continue to drain properly.
It is important for people to have regular eye exams to screen for glaucoma. This is especially important for people who are at a higher risk of developing the disease. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults over the age of 40 have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two to four years and that adults over the age of 60 have an exam every one to two years.
In summary, glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause damage to the optic nerve and result in vision loss, often called “the silent thief of sight.” Risk factors include age, family history, being of African descent, and certain medical conditions. There are several types of glaucoma. Treatment typically involves medication to lower the pressure in the eye, such as eye drops and pills, or laser surgery. Regular eye exams are important for screening. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults over the age of 40 have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two to four years and that adults over the age of 60 have an exam every one to two years.
If you are in need of a comprehensive eye exam or glaucoma screening, please contact us at DHR Health Eye Institute at (956) 362-2070.
