A glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and its health is important for good vision. This damage is usually caused by abnormally high pressure in the eyes.

 Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in people over 60. It can occur at any age but is more common in the elderly.

 There are no warning signs for many forms of glaucoma. The effect is so gradual that you may not notice any change in your vision until you reach a higher altitude.

 Vision loss due to glaucoma is irreversible, so it is important to have regular eye exams, including intraocular pressure measurements, for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early detection of glaucoma can delay or prevent vision loss. If you have a disease, you usually need treatment for the rest of your life.

 Symptoms

 The signs and symptoms of glaucoma depend on the type and stage of the disease. For example:

•  open-angle glaucoma
•  Irregular blind spots in your side (peripheral) or central vision, often in both eyes
•  Tunnel vision in advanced stages
•  acute angle-closure glaucoma
•  Severe headache
•  Eye pain
•  Nausea and vomiting
•  blurred vision
•  Halos around the lights
•  eye redness
•  If left untreated, glaucoma will eventually cause blindness. Even with treatment, about 15 percent of people with glaucoma become blind in at least one eye within 20 years.

 Risk factors

 Because chronic forms of glaucoma can impair vision before any signs or symptoms appear, be aware of these risk factors:

•  having high intraocular pressure (intraocular pressure)
•  be over 60
•  Being Black, Asian, or Hispanic
•  Having a family history of glaucoma
•  Having certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and sickle cell anemia
•  Having thin corneas in the center
•  Being extremely nearsighted or farsighted
•  Having an eye injury or certain eye surgery
•  Using corticosteroid medications, especially eye drops, for a long time

 When to see a doctor

 If you experience some of the symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma, such as severe headache, eye pain, and blurred vision, go to an emergency room or an ophthalmologist (ophthalmologist) immediately.