What is glaucoma and how is it treated?

Glaucoma develops gradually, most often because of increased eye pressure. It is a disease of the optic nerve that leads to weakening of vision and is considered the leading cause of blindness. It is not known what leads to a disorder in the outflow of aqueous humor that creates increased pressure on the optic nerve, which causes its permanent deterioration.

Glaucoma can occur at any age, even in newborns, although it is most common in the elderly. It hardly shows any symptoms, so it is often diagnosed only when it is already causing serious vision problems.

Symptoms of glaucoma

Symptoms such as watery eyes, occasional headaches accompanied by blurred vision, and seeing rainbow colors around light sources can be associated with glaucoma, but since they are not typical symptoms of this disease, they are often not associated with it in time. Problems with this disease are mainly manifested in poorer visual acuity and a reduced field of vision, and in severe cases, loss of vision, which can be permanent.

The occurrence of glaucoma can be related to genetics, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism, although it is not necessary that it develops in people suffering from these diseases. When diagnosing, the family history is analyzed, and the cornea is examined.

The therapy includes anti-glaucoma drops and is applied for life, and if it is started in time, it can effectively keep the deterioration of the optic nerve under control. If not, the therapy is then combined with laser radiation.

Only in rare situations operations are necessary. However, patients whose condition is brought under control with the help of therapy will almost certainly preserve their vision for the rest of their lives.