When a single element falters, it can significantly affect vision and overall eye health. One often-overlooked factor is the fluid inside the eye, which must maintain a precise pressure range. Deviations from this range can lead to ocular nerve damage, resulting in permanent vision loss — a process known as glaucoma.
Our eyes are filled with transparent fluids, with the front chambers containing aqueous humor and the larger back chamber filled with vitreous humor. However, these fluids don’t stagnate; instead, they undergo a constant replenishment cycle to ensure freshness. Crucially, the old fluid needs to drain as swiftly as new fluid is produced. Interruptions or blockages in this drainage cycle give rise to glaucoma.
Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the iris physically blocks the eye’s drainage canals. This variant often manifests with symptoms like nausea, headaches, blurred vision, eye pain, and halos around lights. The onset can be sudden, so seek immediate attention from an eye doctor if you experience these symptoms.
In contrast, approximately 90% of glaucoma cases are open-angle glaucoma, characterized by a gradual clogging of the eye’s drainage canals over an extended period. Progression is often subtle, making it challenging for patients to detect until the later stages when significant damage has occurred. Regular eye exams play a pivotal role in early detection, allowing timely intervention to prevent further harm.
While everyone faces some degree of glaucoma risk, certain factors increase susceptibility. Angle-closure glaucoma is more prevalent among individuals of Asian descent, whereas Black and Hispanic individuals, as well as the elderly, are more prone to open-angle glaucoma. Heredity is a significant risk factor, with familial ties increasing the likelihood of developing glaucoma. Other risk factors include eye injuries and the use of steroids.
Aside from getting regular eye exams to catch glaucoma as early as possible, there are things people with risk factors can do to help prevent vision loss:
Regrettably, optic nerve damage from glaucoma cannot be reversed. However, modern treatments can effectively halt its progression. Early detection is paramount, emphasizing the importance of understanding personal risk factors and prioritizing regular eye exams. By staying vigilant, we can safeguard our patients’ eyesight and well-being.
Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.