Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve, the part of the eye responsible for sending images to the brain. When the optic nerve is harmed, blind spots and vision loss can occur. Glaucoma is often linked to increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP).
Normally, a clear fluid called aqueous humor flows in and out of the eye. If this fluid doesn’t drain properly, pressure builds up. Over time, elevated IOP can injure the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss.
Ocular hypertension—higher-than-normal eye pressure without optic nerve damage—can increase the risk of developing glaucoma. Regular monitoring is important.
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma is the most common form. Primary open-angle glaucoma develops slowly, and most people have no noticeable symptoms until vision is already affected.
In some cases, glaucoma occurs even when eye pressure is within the “normal” range. This is called normal-tension glaucoma. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, lowering eye pressure has been shown to slow its progression.
Your ophthalmologist may determine that you are at higher risk for glaucoma if you have one or more of the following factors:
- Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP)
- Family history of glaucoma
- Certain optic nerve conditions
- Thin corneas
- Older age
- Specific ethnic backgrounds
The main goal of glaucoma treatment is to lower eye pressure to prevent or slow vision loss. Your ophthalmologist may recommend:
- Prescription eye drops
- Laser procedures
- Surgery
Glaucoma is a chronic condition—while it cannot be cured, it can be controlled with ongoing care. Regular monitoring is important to detect changes early. Please call our clinic if you have questions about your diagnosis or treatment options.