How Does Glaucoma Cause Vision Loss?

Glaucoma is a very common eye condition in older adults, but it can happen to anyone. In order to avoid permanent vision loss, it is important to see your eye doctor regularly so that any potential eye conditions can be diagnosed early.

Keep reading to learn how glaucoma causes vision loss!

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. The optic nerve transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. 

Glaucoma often occurs when the fluid pressure within the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP), increases to a level that exceeds the optic nerve’s tolerance. There are several types of glaucoma, but the most common is primary open-angle glaucoma. 

It develops gradually and usually has no noticeable symptoms in the early stages, which is why it is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight.” As the condition progresses, peripheral vision is typically affected first, and if left untreated, it can lead to tunnel vision and eventual blindness.

Another type of glaucoma is angle-closure glaucoma, which occurs when the eye’s drainage angle becomes blocked, leading to a sudden increase in IOP. This type of glaucoma can cause severe symptoms such as eye pain, headaches, blurred vision, and nausea.

Glaucoma can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination that includes measuring IOP, examining the optic nerve, and assessing visual fields. Treatment options for glaucoma aim to lower the intraocular pressure to prevent or slow down further damage to the optic nerve.

Regular eye exams are crucial for the early detection and management of glaucoma, especially for individuals at higher risk, such as those with a family history of glaucoma, older age, or certain medical conditions like diabetes. If you have concerns about your eye health or the possibility of glaucoma, it is important that you schedule an appointment with your eye doctor at Mid Ohio Eye.

Is Vision Loss From Glaucoma Permanent?

In most cases, vision loss caused by glaucoma is permanent and cannot be fully restored. The damage to the optic nerve is typically irreversible, and any vision loss resulting from glaucoma cannot be completely reversed or cured. 

This is why early detection and treatment are crucial in managing glaucoma to prevent or slow down further damage to the optic nerve and preserve existing vision. Although vision loss from glaucoma cannot be reversed, proper treatment and management can help slow down the progression of the disease and prevent further vision deterioration. 

This is achieved by lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), the leading risk factor for glaucoma. Regular monitoring of the condition, adherence to the prescribed treatment plan, and lifestyle adjustments to reduce IOP can all contribute to better management of glaucoma and help preserve vision. 

It is essential for those diagnosed with glaucoma to work closely with their eye care professionals to develop an appropriate treatment strategy tailored to their specific needs and to undergo regular eye examinations to monitor the progression of the disease.

How is Glaucoma Treated?

Glaucoma is typically treated with various approaches aimed at reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) and preventing damage to the optic nerve. The specific treatment options depend on factors such as the type and severity of glaucoma, the patient’s overall health, and their response to previous treatments. 

Eye Drops

Medications in the form of eye drops are frequently prescribed to lower IOP. These drops work by either reducing the production of fluid in the eye or enhancing its drainage. 

Laser Procedures

Various types of laser procedures can be used in glaucoma treatment. These procedures aim to improve fluid drainage to lower eye pressure.

Examples include selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI).

Surgical Interventions

When medications or laser treatments are insufficient to control glaucoma, surgical options may be considered. Trabeculectomy, drainage implants, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) are among the surgical procedures used to improve fluid drainage and reduce IOP.

Treatment choice depends on individual circumstances, and it is important to discuss the options, benefits, and risks with an eye care professional who can provide personalized recommendations based on your situation.

Are you experiencing symptoms of glaucoma? Schedule an appointment at Mid Ohio Eye in Columbus, OH, today!