The Facts on Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness. It is often called “the silent thief of sight” because it can sneak up so slowly it won’t be noticed until it is too late. 

Early diagnosis and treatment can save your vision. Understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and actively seeking treatment are the keys to preserving your vision. 

We’ve listed important factors regarding glaucoma below. 

The Facts on Glaucoma

The Facts on Glaucoma

CAUSES

Glaucoma is caused by damage to the optic nerve.

The damage occurs due to high pressure in the eyes. This pressure is triggered by a blockage of the clear fluid that flows through the eyes nourishing the cornea and lens.

The fluid produced, then drained, creates healthy eye pressure.

If the fluid can’t drain, it builds up within the eye causing pressure that will eventually damage the optic nerve. Age, birth defects, drugs, and inflammation are a few issues that can cause this blockage.  

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of glaucoma can be hard to initially detect due to the slow development of the disease.

Most types of glaucoma are painless and rarely detected until noticeable vision loss. 

Glaucoma causes your field of view to get progressively narrower and blurry. It will affect your side vision and eventually move inward causing blindness if left untreated.   

TREATMENT

Early detection and treatment are significant in saving your vision. 

During an eye exam, the pressure of the eyes can be checked along with the health of the optic nerve.

At exams, damage to the optic nerve, side vision shrinkage, and blind spots can be detected. 

Glaucoma is usually treated with eye drops and/or pills that work to decrease eye pressure by decreasing fluid entering the eye or assisting the flow of fluid out of the eyes. Surgery will be performed if the medications are not effective.  

If you are treated for glaucoma, it is vital that you adhere to the eye doctor’s treatment plan. Inform your eye doctor of side effects experienced.  It is also important to keep open lines of communication with any physicians you visit. 

Early detection and steady treatment are crucial in preventing further vision loss.

If you have any questions regarding glaucoma prevention or treatment, please call The Eye Center, with locations in Huntsville and Madison, at 256-705-3937.