Open-angle glaucoma, also known as primary open-angle glaucoma, is the most common type of glaucoma, accounting for about 70% of cases. This disease progressively affects the optic nerve, the part of the eye that transmits visual signals to the brain. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness.

How Open-Angle Glaucoma Works:

In a healthy eye, the aqueous humor nourishes and removes waste from the ocular tissue. This fluid circulates through a mesh called the trabecular meshwork, which serves as a filter. In open-angle glaucoma, this mesh becomes obstructed or damaged, hindering the normal drainage of the aqueous humor. This obstruction causes an increase in intraocular pressure, potentially damaging the optic nerve.

Risk Factors:

  • Age: The risk of glaucoma increases with age, being more common after 60 years.
  • Family History: Having relatives with glaucoma raises the risk of developing it.
  • High Intraocular Pressure: Elevated intraocular pressure is the primary risk factor.
  • Certain Health Conditions: Some diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, can elevate the risk of glaucoma.
  • Certain Medications: Long-term use of specific steroids can heighten the risk of glaucoma.
  • Certain Eye Defects: Having particular eye defects, such as a narrow iris, can increase the risk.

Symptoms:

In its early stages, it is often asymptomatic. This means that vision loss can go unnoticed until the disease reaches advanced stages . Some symptoms that may occur in more advanced stages include:

  • Blurred vision, especially in peripheral (side) vision.
  • Difficulty seeing in low light conditions.
  • Seeing halos or colored circles around lights.
  • Eye pain.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Loss of vision in the visual field.

 

Because open-angle glaucoma is often asymptomatic in its early stages, early detection is key to preventing vision loss. Having regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist starting at age 40 allows for the disease to be detected in its early stages and for treatment to be initiated to control intraocular pressure and prevent damage to the optic nerve. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve vision for many years.