Glaucoma: The silent thief of sight

Wondering what this about? Let me explain. The eyes are known as the most important part of the human body. Without the eyes, you would never be able to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. The eyes as one of the members of the body gets threatened by so many diseases unspoken of and one of them is called Glaucoma; The Silent Thief of Sight. In a bid to curtail the silent thief, awarenesses are raised yearly for the over 8.2 billion people living in the world.

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to spreading knowledge about the condition often referred to as the “silent thief of sight.” Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. The most alarming aspect of glaucoma is that it often progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. Hence, the critical importance of early detection and management.

Understanding The Silent Thief of Sight (Glaucoma)
Glaucoma is not a single disease but a group of conditions that affect the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. The optic nerve transmits visual information from the retina to the brain, enabling us to see. When this nerve is damaged, it disrupts the transmission of visual signals, leading to vision impairment.

The most common form of glaucoma is primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), characterized by a gradual increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) due to improper drainage of aqueous humor, the fluid in the eye. Over time, elevated IOP damages the optic nerve. Another type, angle-closure glaucoma, occurs when the drainage angle between the iris and cornea becomes blocked, causing a sudden rise in eye pressure. This form can lead to rapid vision loss and requires immediate medical attention.

Risk Factors for Glaucoma
While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase the risk:
1. Age: The likelihood of developing glaucoma increases with age, particularly after 60 years.
2. Family History: A family history of glaucoma significantly raises the risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
3. Ethnicity: Africans, African Americans and people of Hispanic or Asian descent are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma due to environmental factor and lifestyle factors.
4. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can elevate the risk.
5. Eye Injuries: Trauma to the eye can lead to secondary glaucoma.
6. Prolonged Corticosteroid Use: Long-term use of corticosteroids, particularly eye drops, may increase the risk of glaucoma.
7. High Myopia or Hyperopia: Extreme near-sightedness or farsightedness can also be a risk factor.

Symptoms and Progression of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it usually has no early symptoms. Vision loss begins with the peripheral (side) vision and gradually progresses to the centre. By the time patients notice changes in their vision, significant and irreversible damage may already have occurred. In the case of angle-closure glaucoma, symptoms such as severe eye pain, blurred vision, headache, nausea, and vomiting can appear suddenly and require immediate medical attention.

Preventing Vision Loss: Early Detection is Key
Prevention they say is cheaper than cure but in the case of the silent thief, prevention will always be safer than cure.
Although there is no cure for glaucoma, early detection and treatment can prevent or slow down vision loss. Here are some key strategies:
1. Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye examinations are crucial for detecting glaucoma early, especially for individuals over 40 or those with risk factors. Comprehensive exams should include a test for intraocular pressure, a visual field test, and optic nerve imaging.
2. Know Your Family History: If you have a family history of glaucoma, inform your eye care provider. This knowledge can help prioritize early screening and monitoring.
3. Protect Your Eyes: Wearing protective eyewear during sports or activities that pose a risk of eye injury can reduce the chance of secondary glaucoma.
4. Manage Underlying Health Conditions: Controlling conditions such as diabetes and hypertension can lower your risk of developing glaucoma-related complications.
5. Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Exercise Regularly: Moderate exercise may reduce intraocular pressure.
Maintain a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens, carrots, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, can promote eye health.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of optic nerve damage.
Limit Caffeine Intake: Excessive caffeine can temporarily raise eye pressure.
6. Adhere to Treatment Plans: For those diagnosed with glaucoma, adhering to prescribed medications and follow-up appointments is vital. Eye drops that lower intraocular pressure are often the first line of treatment, while laser therapy or surgery may be necessary in advanced cases.

Spreading Awareness: Everyone Has a Role
Ever heard that everyone has a role to play in building a healthier, more informed world- because change begins with each of us?
Raising awareness about glaucoma is essential for reducing its impact on individuals and communities. Many people are unaware they have the disease until significant vision loss occurs. National Glaucoma Awareness Month serves as a reminder to encourage loved ones to prioritize their eye health.
Healthcare professionals and the media can play a pivotal role by educating patients and the entire populace both in rural and urban areas about the importance of regular eye exams, especially for those in high-risk groups. Public health campaigns and community outreach programs can further amplify the message. Sharing personal stories of individuals living with glaucoma can also foster understanding and inspire action.

Final Thoughts
Glaucoma may be a silent thief, but awareness and proactive care can make a difference. By understanding the risk factors, recognizing the importance of early detection, and committing to a healthy lifestyle, individuals can protect their vision and improve their quality of life.
As we observe National Glaucoma Awareness Month this January, let us unite in spreading the message: “See the Future Clearly”. Vision is a precious gift, and with collective effort, we can work toward reducing the burden of this potentially blinding disease.
When everyone preserves their vision, the world becomes clearer, brighter and full of possibilities for all.
*Dr.Ume is a consultant ophthalmologist at Garki Hospial, Abuja