Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that can damage the optic nerve, the part of the eye responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss and even blindness.

Types of Glaucoma

There are several types of glaucoma, but the most common ones include:.

Primary Open-angle Glaucoma

This is the most common type of glaucoma and occurs when the drainage canals in the eye become clogged over time, leading to increased eye pressure.

Angle-closure Glaucoma

Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the iris is too close to the drainage angle in the eye, blocking the flow of aqueous humor and causing a sudden increase in eye pressure.

Secondary Glaucoma

Secondary glaucoma is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, trauma to the eye, or the use of certain medications.

What Causes Glaucoma?

While the exact cause of glaucoma is still not fully understood, there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing the condition:.

Age

Glaucoma becomes more common as you age, with a higher risk for individuals over the age of 60.

Family History

Having a close family member with glaucoma increases your risk of developing the condition.

Elevated Eye Pressure

Increased intraocular pressure is a significant risk factor for glaucoma. However, not everyone with elevated eye pressure will develop the condition.

Thin Corneas

People with thinner corneas may have a higher risk of developing glaucoma.

Abnormal Optic Nerve Anatomy

Some individuals may have an optic nerve structure that is more susceptible to damage from increased eye pressure.

Systemic Health Conditions

Medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can increase the risk of glaucoma.

Chronic Eye Inflammation

Conditions causing chronic eye inflammation, such as uveitis, can also lead to glaucoma.

Eye Trauma

Any significant injury to the eye can increase the risk of developing glaucoma later in life.

Eye Surgery or Corticosteroid Use

Prolonged or excessive use of corticosteroid medications or previous eye surgery may increase the risk of glaucoma.

Treatment and Management

Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing glaucoma. While there is no cure, treatment aims to slow down the progression of the disease and preserve vision. Common treatment options include:.