Glaucoma is a chronic disease that leads to the progressive loss of nerve fibers in the optic nerve. This loss results in vision impairment and, in more advanced stages, irreversible blindness.

Risk factors:

• Family history of glaucoma.

• High intraocular pressure (>21 mm Hg).

• Age over 55 years.

• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sickle cell anemia.

• Extreme myopia or hyperopia.

  
  

Common symptoms:

Glaucoma does not produce any initial symptoms and, when it is very advanced, the patient may notice vision reduction in one or both eyes. 

Treatment:

• Eye drops to lower and maintain low intraocular pressure.

• Various surgical procedures to maintain low intraocular pressure.