Glaucoma: Complete Guide by Ottica Paoletti
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, often linked to high intraocular pressure. It is one of the main causes of blindness, especially in those over 60. At Ottica Paoletti in Pieve di Soligo we offer you useful information to recognize the symptoms and act promptly.
Note: Glaucoma is known as the "silent thief of sight" because it can progress without obvious symptoms to irreversible damage. For a diagnosis, consult an eye doctor.
Types of Glaucoma
There are different forms of glaucoma, each with specific characteristics:
- Open-angle glaucoma: The most common form, it develops gradually and painlessly.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: Rare but serious, it can cause severe pain and rapid vision loss.
- Normotensive glaucoma: Eye pressure is normal, but the optic nerve is still damaged.
- Congenital glaucoma: Rare, it appears from birth or in the first few years of life.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Symptoms depend on the type and stage of the disease:
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain (in acute glaucoma)
- Heachache
- Nausea and vomiting (in severe cases)
- Halos around lights
Prevention: Regular check-ups with an eye doctor are essential for early diagnosis and to protect your vision.
Risk Factors
Some factors increase the likelihood of developing glaucoma:
- Age over 60 years
- Family history of glaucoma
- High intraocular pressure
- Ethnicity (more common in some populations)
- Conditions such as diabetes or myopia
Glaucoma Treatments
Treatments, prescribed by an ophthalmologist, aim to reduce intraocular pressure:
- Eye drops: Initial solution to control blood pressure.
- Laser: Techniques such as trabeculoplasty to improve drainage.
- Surgery: Necessary in the most severe cases.
- Combination therapy: Integrated use of multiple treatments.
Helpful Tips from Ottica Paoletti
We can support you with:
- Information on visual health
- Optometric checks to monitor your vision (non-diagnostic)