Glaucoma: Everything You Need to Know About This Eye Disease

Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, typically caused by increased intraocular pressure. If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible vision loss. At Óptica LUPER, we help you anticipate glaucoma to preserve your vision.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) rises, progressively damaging the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual signals to the brain. There are several types of glaucoma, the most common being:

• Open-angle glaucoma: The most frequent type, which develops slowly.
• Angle-closure glaucoma: Less common but more dangerous, as it can cause a sudden increase in eye pressure.

Learn more about our specialized eye exams to anticipate problems like glaucoma in time.

Causes of Glaucoma: Why Does It Occur?

Glaucoma generally occurs when the fluid in the eye does not drain properly, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure. This pressure exerts force on the optic nerve, gradually damaging it. The main causes of glaucoma include:

• Excessive production of eye fluid (aqueous humor).
• Problems with the eye's drainage channels.
• Genetic or hereditary factors.

Discover how we can help you control intraocular pressure and anticipate glaucoma.

Symptoms of Glaucoma: How to Detect the First Signs?

In its early stages, glaucoma is usually asymptomatic, making it a "silent thief of sight." Symptoms can vary depending on the type of glaucoma:

1. Open-Angle Glaucoma

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision (side vision).
• Blurred vision or dark spots in the visual field.
• Occasional headaches.

2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma

• Severe pain in the eye.
• Cloudy vision or the appearance of halos around lights.
• Nausea or vomiting along with eye pain.

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule your eye exam with us for early glaucoma anticipation.

How is Glaucoma Anticipated?

Anticipating glaucoma is essential to prevent vision loss. At Óptica LUPER, we perform a series of specialized tests to anticipate this condition:

1. Tonometer: Measures intraocular pressure.
2. Visual field exam: Evaluates peripheral vision loss.

Learn more about our advanced diagnostic eye tests.

Glaucoma Treatments: What Are the Options?

Glaucoma has no cure, but with proper treatment, it can be managed to prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

Medications (Eye Drops)

Eye drops reduce intraocular pressure, either by decreasing the production of aqueous humor or improving its drainage. It is important to use them regularly as directed by your ophthalmologist.

How Does a Person with Glaucoma See?

In the early stages, glaucoma may not affect central vision, so people do not realize the problems until the disease is advanced. In severe cases, glaucoma can lead to tunnel vision, where only what is directly in front can be seen, with a loss of peripheral vision.

Keep your vision healthy and anticipate glaucoma with our check-ups at LUPER.

Risk Factors: Who Is at Greater Risk of Developing Glaucoma?

Glaucoma can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk:

• Age: Higher risk in people over 60.
• Family history: Glaucoma is hereditary.
• Myopia or Hyperopia: Refractive errors can increase the risk.
• Ancestry: People of African, Asian, or Latin descent are more likely to develop it.
• Health problems: Diseases like diabetes or hypertension.

Discover more about risk factors on our eye health page and book an appointment to protect your vision.

Does Glaucoma Have a Cure?

Glaucoma has no definitive cure, but with proper treatment and early diagnosis, it can be controlled to prevent vision loss. It is vital to follow the prescribed treatment, as damage to the optic nerve is irreversible.

Visit our section on glaucoma treatment and learn how we can help you manage the disease.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis in Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, but with regular eye exams, it is possible to prevent vision loss. 

At Óptica LUPER, we offer advanced exams to protect your visual health.

Schedule your specialized eye exam at LUPER and take care of your vision.