Glaucoma is a group of progressive eye diseases characterised by damage to the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. The most common form, open-angle glaucoma, is typically associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), though it can also occur at normal pressure levels. The condition is particularly dangerous because it usually progresses silently without pain or noticeable symptoms, gradually destroying peripheral vision before eventually affecting central vision.
By the time a patient notices vision changes, significant and irreversible optic nerve damage has often already occurred — which is why glaucoma is known as the “silent thief of sight.” Early detection through regular comprehensive eye examinations that include intraocular pressure measurement, optic nerve assessment, and visual field testing is the most effective way to prevent vision loss. Treatment focuses on lowering eye pressure through medicated eye drops, laser procedures such as selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), or surgical interventions including trabeculectomy and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).