Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent disease of vision.” Unlike other eye disorders, it usually progresses without pain or obvious symptoms in the early stages. However, it can lead to irreversible vision loss if not detected and treated in time. That is why early detection plays a vital role in protecting visual health.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually damage the optic nerve, the structure that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. When this nerve is damaged, the brain receives less visual information, leading to vision loss.
In many cases, this deterioration is associated with high pressure inside the eye, called intraocular pressure. However, some people can develop glaucoma even with normal eye pressure.
There are several types of glaucoma, the most common of which are:
- Open-angle glaucoma: the most common form, which progresses slowly and without symptoms.
- Closed-angle glaucoma: rarer, but can cause a rapid increase in eye pressure and requires urgent intervention.
- Congenital glaucoma: present from birth, although very rare.
Why is it called a “silent” disease?
Glaucoma is called a silent disease because it often causes no symptoms in its early stages. Central vision usually remains intact for a long time.
Vision loss begins in the peripheral visual field. As this change is gradual, the brain compensates and the person does not realize that they are losing part of their vision. It is often during a comprehensive eye exam that the first signs are detected by an eye care professional.
Risk factors
Some people are at higher risk of developing glaucoma. The main risk factors include:
- Age (the risk increases after age 40)
- Family history of glaucoma
- High intraocular pressure
- Severe myopia
- Certain diseases such as diabetes or hypertension
- Ethnicity (the risk is higher in certain populations)
If you have one or more of these factors, it is particularly important to have your eyes examined regularly.
How is glaucoma detected?
Glaucoma screening is done during a comprehensive eye exam. Several simple and painless tests can assess the health of your eyes and detect early signs of the disease.
For example, your eye care professional may:
- Measure your intraocular pressure
- Examine your optic nerve
- Assess your visual field
- Analyze the thickness of certain structures in your eye using advanced imaging
These tests can detect subtle changes even before your vision is affected.
Can glaucoma be treated?
Although damage to the optic nerve cannot be repaired, glaucoma can often be controlled when detected early. Treatments are primarily aimed at reducing intraocular pressure to slow or stop the progression of the disease. Depending on the situation, they may include:
- Eye drops
- Laser treatments
- Surgery
Regular follow-up is essential to ensure that eye pressure remains well controlled.
The importance of regular eye exams
Because glaucoma often progresses without symptoms, regular eye exams remain the best way to protect your vision. Early screening can detect the disease at a stage when it is still possible to preserve vision and avoid significant visual loss. Taking care of your eyes also means adopting good habits: seeing an eye care professional regularly, following treatment recommendations, and paying attention to any changes in your vision.
See the future with confidence
Glaucoma may seem worrisome, but with modern technology and proper monitoring, it is possible to preserve your vision and maintain an excellent quality of life.
A simple eye exam can make all the difference. If it's been a while since you've had an exam, it may be time to make an appointment with your IRIS optometrist and have your eye health checked.
