Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve—the crucial connection between your eyes and brain. Most commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma develops gradually and often without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has already occurred. Left untreated, it can lead to permanent blindness.
What Causes Glaucoma?
The eye constantly produces a fluid called aqueous humor, which nourishes eye tissues and maintains pressure within the eye. This fluid typically drains out through a structure called the trabecular meshwork. When this drainage system becomes blocked or inefficient, fluid builds up, raising intraocular pressure. Over time, this pressure damages the optic nerve fibers, leading to progressive and irreversible vision loss.
There are several types of glaucoma, but the two most common are:
-
Open-angle glaucoma: The most common form, where drainage becomes less efficient over time. It develops slowly and painlessly.
-
Angle-closure glaucoma: A less common but more acute form, where the drainage angle is blocked, causing a sudden rise in eye pressure. This is a medical emergency.
Why Is Glaucoma Called the “Silent Thief of Sight”?
Early glaucoma typically has no symptoms. There’s no pain, redness, or immediate vision changes. Vision loss begins subtly, usually with peripheral (side) vision, which many patients don’t notice until the disease is advanced. Without regular eye exams, many people don’t realize they have glaucoma until it’s too late.
In its advanced stages, glaucoma causes:
-
Loss of peripheral vision
-
“Tunnel vision”
-
Complete and irreversible blindness
This is why early detection is critical.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop glaucoma, but certain factors increase your risk:
-
Age over 60
-
Family history of glaucoma
-
African, Hispanic, or Asian descent
-
High eye pressure (IOP)
-
Diabetes, hypertension, or poor circulation
-
Long-term steroid use
-
Eye injuries
How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
A comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist or optometrist includes tests to check:
-
Intraocular pressure
-
The health of your optic nerve (via imaging)
-
Peripheral vision
-
Eye drainage angle (gonioscopy)
-
Corneal thickness
These routine tests can detect glaucoma before symptoms appear, offering a chance to preserve your vision.
Glaucoma Treatment Options
There is currently no cure for glaucoma, and vision loss cannot be reversed—but with proper treatment, further damage can be prevented.
Common treatments include:
-
Prescription Eye Drops: The most common first-line treatment. These reduce IOP by decreasing fluid production or improving fluid drainage.
-
Oral Medications: In some cases, pills may be prescribed to further lower eye pressure.
-
Laser Therapy: Procedures like trabeculoplasty (for open-angle glaucoma) or iridotomy (for angle-closure glaucoma) help fluid drain more efficiently from the eye.
-
Surgical Procedures: For more advanced or unresponsive cases, surgery may be required to create a new drainage channel.
Staying Ahead of Glaucoma
Glaucoma requires lifelong monitoring and management. Skipping treatment or delaying diagnosis can result in permanent blindness. However, with early detection and proper care, most people with glaucoma can maintain their vision for life.
Concerned About Glaucoma? Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam Today
At Belmont Eye Center, our experienced team uses the latest diagnostic technology to detect glaucoma early and customize a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether you’re at risk or have already been diagnosed, we’re here to help you preserve your vision.
📞 Call now to book an appointment or visit BelmontEyeCenter.com to learn more about glaucoma care in New York City.
