'Silent thief of sight': How glaucoma causes progressive loss of vision

A significant amount of vision loss usually precedes the onset of glaucoma symptoms

Dr Sirish Nelivigi|Sep 20, 2022, 11:07:37 IST

Glaucoma is a condition that can cause vision loss and blindness by damaging a nerve in the back of your eye called the optic nerve. Globally, it is the second leading cause of blindness, yet it remains one of the most undertreated eye condition. It is commonly referred to as a ‘silent thief of sight’, as it typically does not start showing symptoms early in the disease lifecycle. Glaucoma usually causes a peripheral and gradual decrease in sight, making it difficult for patients to notice the growing visual deficiency until it is too late.One should be aware of the following risk factors involved:

Age
Near sightedness
Family History of glaucoma
Any eye injury or certain types of eye surgeries
Medical history, suffering from disease like diabetes, high blood pressure etc

According to the World Health Organisation, about 4.5 million people in the world are blind due to glaucoma. In India, approximately 12 million people suffer from this condition and almost 10 per cent of the population is blind because of glaucoma.¹ Even though it’s a common condition people are unaware about the causes and symptoms of the disease. For early diagnosis of glaucoma, it is important to have an annual eye check up with an ophthalmologist. Due to delayed diagnosis, an advanced condition of glaucoma is seen with many patients.The symptoms of glaucoma may vary depending on its type. One of the most common types of glaucoma is open angle glaucoma. A significant amount of vision loss usually precedes the onset of symptoms. While symptoms of acute glaucoma include eye pain, redness, headache, nausea and blurry vision, open angle variety of glaucoma is asymptomatic till the last stages of the disease. Although anyone could be at risk of developing glaucoma, certain groups are at a higher risk, like people above the age of 40 or people with a family history of glaucoma.There are treatment options available like topical medications, surgery, or laser therapies. Despite the fact, that damage due to glaucoma could not be reversed, early detection and treatment of the disease can reduce the probability of further damage and irreversible vision loss.However, the treatment options are purely based on individual patient and the treating physician. An ophthalmologist can suggest the best treatment option for a patient based on the examination.Therefore, timely visits to an ophthalmologist and regular eye-check-ups are recommended to keep an eye out for glaucoma.The author is Consultant & Director, Nelivigi Eye Hospital, Bengaluru. Views are personal.Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News,India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Stroke is rising among young adults. Doctor explains why it's happening and what you must do

Stroke is increasingly affecting adults in their 30s, 40s and 50s. Experts say unhealthy lifestyles, undiagnosed high blood pressure and delayed treatment are driving the rise in younger stroke cases

3 min read

Stroke in young adults, silent symptoms and late diagnosis: India's growing brain health challenge

Neurologists warn that stroke is increasingly affecting people in their 30s and 40s, while many brain disorders progress silently before symptoms appear. They say early diagnosis, timely referrals and healthier lifestyles are key to reducing India's growing neurological disease burden.

5 min read

Brain tumours aren't always fatal, but delayed diagnosis can be: Experts explain the key warning signs

Brain tumours are frequently mistaken for common headaches, stress or age-related cognitive changes. Doctors say recognising warning signs early and adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term neurological complications.

2 min read

Spices, health and the Indian plate: Why chilli can be good for you—but moderation is still key

From boosting metabolism to supporting heart health, chillies offer several surprising health benefits. But experts say the amount you eat matters, and too much spice can do more harm than good.

4 min read

Organ donation: 5 myths you need to stop believing, according to a transplant specialist

Organ donation has the power to transform and save lives, but this can happen only when myths are replaced with facts. Building awareness, having open conversations and understanding the process can help families make informed decisions.