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February 2025 Newsletter: Glaucoma

Updated: Jun 30

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that target and damage the optic nerve. This damage is usually caused by high pressure within the eye, known as Intraocular Pressure.


Why Is It Called the "Silent Thief"?

The frightening thing about glaucoma is that it often progresses without any noticeable symptoms. Vision loss usually begins with peripheral vision and creeps inward, and by the time central vision is affected, the damage is often permanent.


There are two main types of Glaucoma:

  1. Open-Angle Glaucoma: The more common one. It develops slowly and painlessly. Goes unnoticed until symptoms become obvious or diagnosed. 

  2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma: The less common one. It is much more dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. Occurs suddenly and symptoms are immediate.


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What Causes Glaucoma?

The causes are dependent on the type, however most cases are connected to issues regarding the drainage of aqueous humor (the fluid inside the eye). When this fluid does not drain properly, it builds up and increases the pressure within the eye. This leads to the optic nerve getting damaged.


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Risk Factors:

  • Old Age (60<)

  • Family medical history

  • Abnormally high eye pressure 

  • Ethnicity (African American, Hispanic, and Asian people are more at risk)

  • Overuse of corticosteroids


How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

  • Ophthalmoscopy: Examination of the optic nerve

  • Perimetry: Checks for vision loss

  • Gonioscopy: Measures and analyzes the angle in the eye where the iris meets the cornea

  • Tonometry: Measures eye pressure


Treatment Options

There is no cure for glaucoma, however, there are treatments that can slow down or prevent further vision loss.

  • Prescription eye drops (reduce eye pressure)

  • Oral medications

  • Laser therapy (improves fluid drainage)

  • Surgery (for more advanced/resistant cases)


Living with Glaucoma

  • Schedule comprehensive eye exams (one every 1-2 years)

  • Exercise regularly

  • Manage other health conditions

Protect your vision. Get your eyes checked!


 
 
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