Glaucoma Symptoms, Causes & Treatment | SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja

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A sign of Glaucoma| SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja

By Dr. Mary Ann Adamma Aligweke (OD)

The Optic Nerve & Glaucoma
The eye captures images, but it's the optic nerve that transmits them to the brain for interpretation. Any damage to this nerve can result in permanent vision loss. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that cause irreversible vision loss due to optic nerve damage. It typically progresses slowly and painlessly, making early detection crucial. It affects individuals over 60 more commonly, but can occur at any age. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, our optometrists use advanced digital diagnostics to detect glaucoma before it affects your vision.

What Causes Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is usually caused by a buildup of fluid (aqueous humor) in the front part of the eye, increasing intraocular pressure (IOP), which damages the optic nerve. Optometrists at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja evaluate IOP levels during every comprehensive eye exam to screen for early signs of glaucoma.

Risk Factors Include:

  • Family history of glaucoma

  • Diabetes mellitus and hypertension

  • Eye trauma or chemical injuries

  • Chronic eye infections (e.g., uveitis)

  • Retinal diseases or iris abnormalities

Types of Glaucoma
Glaucoma can manifest in different forms, each with unique causes and presentations:

1. Open-Angle Glaucoma (Most Common)

  • Drainage angle is open, but fluid drains too slowly

  • Progresses silently over time

2. Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma

  • Sudden blockage in drainage angle

  • Symptoms include severe pain, redness, and blurry vision

  • Considered an ocular emergency

3. Secondary Glaucoma

  • Caused by underlying issues such as injury, inflammation, or diabetes

  • May result from medication side effects

  • Can be open- or angle-closure

4. Normal Tension Glaucoma

  • Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure

  • Typically diagnosed through retinal imaging and visual field testing

5. Congenital Glaucoma

  • Rare, hereditary form

  • Caused by abnormal drainage development in infants

  • Often diagnosed in the first year of life

Symptoms of Glaucoma
Early stages often have no symptoms, earning it the nickname "Silent Thief of Sight." As it progresses, the following signs may appear:

  • Peripheral vision loss (side vision)

  • Headaches

  • Nausea

  • Eye pain or pressure

  • Blurred vision

  • Redness
    Patients at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja are encouraged to schedule annual check-ups with an optometrist even if they feel fine, as symptoms may only emerge when damage is advanced.

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Only a comprehensive eye exam by a qualified optometrist or ophthalmologist can detect glaucoma early. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we use cutting-edge equipment for accurate diagnosis.

Diagnostic Tests Include:

  • Ophthalmoscopy – to assess optic nerve health

  • Tonometry – to measure intraocular pressure

  • Perimetry – visual field testing for blind spots

  • Pachymetry – to measure corneal thickness

  • Gonioscopy – to examine the eye’s drainage angle

Treatment Options for Glaucoma
While optic nerve damage is irreversible, early treatment can slow or stop its progression. The goal of treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure and preserve remaining vision.

Common Treatments:

  • Prescription eye drops – first-line therapy

  • Oral medications – for pressure control

  • Laser therapy – to improve fluid drainage

  • Surgery – when other methods aren’t effective
    Many patients at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja benefit from a combination of these treatments, tailored by our optometrists to suit individual needs.

Prevention & Lifestyle Tips
Although glaucoma cannot be completely prevented, these habits can support eye health and reduce your risk:

  • Eat fruits and leafy vegetables

  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

  • Manage blood pressure and reduce stress

  • Limit high caffeine intake

  • Exercise regularly (e.g., walking or gardening)

  • Wear sunglasses to protect against UV damage

  • Book annual eye exams, even without symptoms

FAQs
Q: Can glaucoma be cured?
A: No, but early diagnosis and treatment can slow or prevent vision loss.

Q: How often should I have an eye exam?
A: At least once a year, especially if you're over 40 or have risk factors. Schedule your check-up at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja with one of our licensed optometrists.

Q: Is glaucoma painful?
A: Open-angle glaucoma is usually painless. Acute angle-closure glaucoma, however, may cause sudden, severe pain and requires immediate attention.

Q: Can children get glaucoma?
A: Yes. Congenital glaucoma can affect infants and young children, and it is typically hereditary. Our optometrists are trained to screen for pediatric glaucoma during routine exams at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja.

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SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja
📍 Ile-Oja Mall, Opebi Link, Ikeja, Lagos
📞 0701 820 7486

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