Glaucoma is one of the most insidious ocular diseases in modern ophthalmology. It is often known as the “silent thief of sight” because, in its early stages, it produces almost no noticeable symptoms. Meanwhile, damage to the optic nerve occurs imperceptibly to the patient.

📌 So what is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of progressive eye conditions in which the optic nerve is damaged, often due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Without treatment, it leads to gradual narrowing of the field of vision and, ultimately, to irreversible blindness.

A key feature of this condition is that peripheral vision loss may go unnoticed in the early stages, while central vision remains largely unaffected. As a result, patients often seek medical attention only in the later stages.

📌 How can early onset be detected?

✅ Routine eye examinations

Regular comprehensive ophthalmic examinations are the best way to detect glaucoma at an early stage. Modern methods of early diagnosis include:

✅ OCT (optical coherence tomography) — allows assessment of the optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness.

✅ Computerised perimetry — detects changes in the field of vision.

✅ Tonometry — measurement of intraocular pressure.

Important: Even if the eyes do not hurt and visual acuity appears normal, pathological changes may already be progressing.

📌 Who is at risk?

Risk factors include age over 40 years, family history, elevated intraocular pressure, shortsightedness, diabetes, and other systemic diseases.

📌 Remember: If there have been cases of glaucoma in your family, regular eye examinations are especially important.

📌 Recommendations for preserving vision

✅ Undergo regular ophthalmic examinations at least once a year from the age of 40.

✅ Monitor overall health: control blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and other associated risk factors.

✅ If treatment is prescribed, follow your physician’s recommendations.

✨ Glaucoma is not a sentence. However, early detection and timely treatment significantly increase the chances of preserving vision throughout life.