Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to increased pressure within the eye. The optic nerve is crucial for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss and blindness.
There are several types of glaucoma, but the most common is open-angle glaucoma, which typically progresses slowly over time. In open-angle glaucoma, the drainage angle within the eye remains open but becomes less efficient at draining fluid, leading to a gradual increase in eye pressure.
Symptoms of glaucoma can vary depending on the type and stage of the condition. However, in many cases, glaucoma develops gradually and may not cause noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. Some common symptoms include:
- Patchy blind spots in your peripheral or central vision
- Tunnel vision in advanced stages
- Severe eye pain
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Halos around lights
- Eye redness
