Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often caused by increased pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). If left untreated, it can lead to vision loss or blindness. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent serious damage.
Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it typically has no symptoms in its early stages. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include patchy blind spots in peripheral vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, headaches, nausea, blurred vision, or halos around lights
Risk factors include:
Treatment aims to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further damage. Common methods include:
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness globally, affecting over 76 million people worldwide, a number projected to rise to 111.8 million by 2040.