What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma, known as the 'silent thief of sight', is an eye disease that can lead to irreversible vision loss and blindness. It occurs when there is damage to the optic nerve, often due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye. This pressure buildup can cause progressive damage to the nerve that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Glaucoma can develop slowly, individual may not be aware of the gradual loss of sight. As the condition worsens, the following signs may emerge:
1. Gradual Loss in Peripheral Vision (unilaterally or bilaterally)
2. Tunnel Vision
3. Severe Headache and Eye Pain
4. Blurred Vision
Risk Factor
1. Age: People over 60 years old are at higher risk
2. Family History
3. Use of Corticosteroids
4. High Myopia
5. Certain Medical Conditions (e.g. High Blood Pressure and Diabetes)
6. Eye Injury or Certain Types of Eye Surgery