Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, which transfers visual information from the eye to the brain. It is caused by increased eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve over time, leading to vision loss and blindness.
Glaucoma often shows no symptoms in the early stages. By the time a person notices vision loss, significant optic nerve damage may have already occurred. This is why regular eye exams and screening for glaucoma are so important.
There are several types of glaucoma:
Primary open-angle glaucoma – The most common type, caused by slow clogging of drainage canals resulting in increased eye pressure.
Angle-closure glaucoma – Occurs when the iris is too close to the drainage angle, blocking the flow of eye fluid. This causes a rapid and painful buildup of pressure.
Normal tension glaucoma – Optic nerve damage with normal eye pressure levels.
Congenital glaucoma – Develops in infancy or early childhood due to defective development of fluid drainage pathways.
Secondary glaucoma – Caused by injury, infection, tumour, eye surgery or advanced cataracts. Glaucoma remains a leading cause of preventable blindness. In India, glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness after cataracts. Over 12 million people are estimated to be affected by glaucoma in India.
With early diagnosis and proper treatment, vision loss from glaucoma can be prevented. Bothra Foundation aims to increase access to eye care and make treatment affordable to all through initiatives like World Glaucoma Week.
To know more about the Glaucoma, visit: https://www.glaucomapatients.org/