What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a hereditary eye condition and one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide.

Often called the “silent thief of sight,” it progresses gradually, making early detection critical.

Vision can deteriorate without any obvious warning signs, so regular eye examinations are essential, especially if you have a family history of glaucoma.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain, becomes damaged. This damage can happen for various reasons, but the most common cause is increased pressure inside the eye.

While trauma, previous eye surgery, or certain medical conditions can contribute, elevated intraocular pressure remains the primary factor in most cases.

As the optic nerve is damaged over time, vision loss usually begins at the edges of your visual field and progresses inward.

This subtle progression means that people may not notice changes in their vision until significant damage has occurred.

Unlike some eye conditions, glaucoma cannot be detected by self-monitoring, making professional eye exams crucial.

Who is at Risk?

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but certain factors increase the likelihood:

Family history:

A parent or sibling with glaucoma increases your risk.

Age over 40:

The likelihood of developing glaucoma rises as we get older.

Medical conditions:

Diabetes and chronic migraines have been associated with a higher risk.

Use of steroid medication:

Long-term steroid use, whether in eye drops or oral medications, can elevate eye pressure.

Previous eye trauma or surgery:

Damage or surgery affecting the eye can make glaucoma more likely.

In Australia, estimates suggest that up to half of all people living with glaucoma are unaware they have the condition. This highlights the importance of regular eye checks, even if you feel your vision is normal.

Recognising the Signs

Glaucoma is often symptom-free in its early stages. Vision loss typically begins at the periphery, which the brain compensates for, leaving central vision unaffected until later stages. Because of this, changes in your vision may go unnoticed.

Some people experience subtle symptoms, including:

• Mild eye discomfort or headaches
• Occasional blurred vision
• Difficulty adjusting to low light or night driving

These symptoms are not unique to glaucoma, which is why regular testing by an optometrist is vital.

During an eye exam, your optometrist will measure eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, and perform additional tests if necessary to detect early changes.

How Glaucoma is Managed

Currently, there is no cure for glaucoma, and vision lost cannot be restored. However, the progression of the condition can be controlled. Management strategies include:

Eye drops:

The most common treatment, prescribed to reduce eye pressure. Daily, consistent use is essential for effectiveness.

Laser therapy:

Certain types of glaucoma may respond well to laser treatment to improve fluid drainage from the eye.

Surgery:

In cases where eye drops or laser therapy are insufficient, surgical options can help lower intraocular pressure.

It’s important to follow your ophthalmologist’s instructions carefully if prescribed treatment. Adherence ensures the best chance of slowing disease progression and protecting remaining vision.

Prevention and Eye Health Tips

While you cannot prevent glaucoma entirely, early detection is the most effective way to protect your vision.

Simple measures that support eye health include:

• Scheduling regular comprehensive eye exams, particularly if you have risk factors.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Avoiding long-term, unnecessary use of steroid medications without medical supervision.

By combining regular monitoring with healthy habits, you can reduce the risk of serious vision loss.

Your eyesight is invaluable, and glaucoma is a condition where early action makes a significant difference.

Booking regular eye tests ensures any changes are detected promptly, allowing treatment to slow or prevent further damage.

If you’re due for an eye test or have noticed changes in your vision, book an eye test with us today.