Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal sight without warning — often called the “sneak thief of sight.” In the early stages there may be no symptoms, and studies suggest that half of the people affected by glaucoma in the United States may not know they have it.
How Glaucoma Develops
- Typically develops slowly
- May not cause symptoms early
- Can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated
- Early detection is key
Types of Glaucoma
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most common form. It develops slowly and often without noticeable symptoms.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Also called acute glaucoma, this occurs when the iris blocks fluid drainage in the eye. It can cause a sudden rise in eye pressure and requires immediate medical attention.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Occurs when there is damage to the optic nerve despite the pressure in the eye remaining rather low.
Secondary Glaucoma
Develops as a result of another disease or injury, causing or contributing to an increase in your eye’s intraocular pressure.
Congenital Glaucoma — A rare form present at birth or developing in early childhood, often caused by the abnormal development of the eye’s drainage system.
Causes of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is caused by a number of different eye diseases, which, in most cases, increase pressure within the eye. This elevated pressure is caused by a backup of fluid in the eye. Over time, it causes damage to different parts of the eye, particularly the optic nerve.
Whether the eye pressure is high, normal, or below normal, it can still cause damage. Most types of glaucoma are chronic and are present for the person’s lifetime. Some types of glaucoma occur suddenly (such as angle-closure glaucoma), but most develop slowly over months or years.
Symptoms & Risk Factors
Symptoms (often late-stage)
- Peripheral vision loss
- Blurred vision
- Halos around lights
- Eye pain (acute cases)
Risk Factors
- Age over 60
- Family history
- Diabetes
- High eye pressure
- African American / Hispanic heritage
Diagnosing Glaucoma
Elevated eye pressure is one of the first signs an eye doctor will look for during an eye exam to indicate glaucoma, but eye pressure alone cannot be used to diagnose glaucoma.
Once an eye doctor notes elevated eye pressure, they will order specific tests, such as an optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan, fundus photography, and conduct a careful examination of the retina and optic nerve to confirm the diagnosis. Family history, especially if there are close relatives with vision loss, is also a critical part of the diagnostic evaluation.
Protect Your Vision with Early Detection
Florida Eye Specialists offers the latest technology for diagnosing and monitoring glaucoma. Schedule a screening today.