Beyond Eye Pressure: The Complex Nature of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often associated with high eye pressure, but this common belief oversimplifies a much more complex condition. In reality, glaucoma is a progressive disease of the optic nerve, and eye pressure is only one of several contributing factors.

Glaucoma can develop even when eye pressure readings are within the normal range. This form, known as Normal-tension glaucoma, proves that pressure alone does not determine who will develop the disease or how it progresses.

Glaucoma Is an Optic Nerve Disease

The true hallmark of glaucoma is damage to the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. When this nerve is damaged, vision loss occurs, and this damage is permanent.

Elevated eye pressure increases the risk of optic nerve damage, but other factors such as poor blood circulation, genetic susceptibility, age, and optic nerve structure also play a critical role.

Why Glaucoma Is Often Missed!

Glaucoma typically progresses without pain or early warning signs. Vision loss usually begins in the peripheral field and advances slowly, making it difficult for patients to notice until the disease is already advanced.

Because symptoms appear late, many people with glaucoma are unaware they have it until significant vision has been lost. This is why glaucoma is widely known as the “silent thief of sight.”

Eye Pressure Alone Is Not Enough

Measuring eye pressure is important, but it is not sufficient to diagnose or rule out glaucoma. Accurate detection requires a comprehensive eye examination, which may include:

• Optic nerve imaging (OCT)

• Visual field testing

• Corneal thickness measurement

• Eye fluid drainage angle assessment (ie. Goinoscopy)

• Ongoing eye pressure monitor

  
  

These tests allow eye care professionals to identify glaucoma early and track subtle changes over time.

Early Detection Protects Vision

There is no cure for glaucoma, but early diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly slow disease progression. Treatment focuses on protecting the optic nerve and preserving existing vision through medications, laser therapy, or surgical options when necessary.

Early detection of glaucoma plays a key role in maintaining good vision over time.

Take Action for Your Eye Health

Glaucoma can progress silently and cause irreversible vision loss, making regular comprehensive eye exams essential - especially for those with risk factors such as a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, or being over the age of 40.

At LivingHope Vision Clinic, we provide thorough glaucoma evaluations and ongoing management using advanced diagnostic technology and personalized care. If it has been a

while since your last eye exam or you have concerns about your eye health, we invite you to book an appointment with us today.   

Protecting your vision starts with expert care and early action. 👁️💚