Glaucoma is known as the "vision thief of the eye" because it progresses slowly without obvious initial symptoms until it causes permanent damage to the optic nerve. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Health and WHO, glaucoma is the second largest cause of permanent blindness in the world after cataracts, with about 80 million sufferers globally.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease caused by damage to the optic nerve that causes narrowing of the field of vision to permanent blindness. This condition is generally related to increased eyeball pressure, although it can occur at normal pressure. Glaucoma is more common at the age of 60 and is often only detected when the condition is advanced due to the lack of initial symptoms.

Causes of Glaucoma

Inside the eye there is an aqueous fluid humor that maintains the pressure and nutrition of the eyes. This disruption of fluid flow causes an increase in eyeball pressure which gradually damages the optic nerve. As a result, edge vision disappears (tunnel vision) and can progress to total blindness if left untreated.

Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is divided into several main types:

Open angles: most common, developing slowly without early symptoms.

1. Closed (acute) angle: sudden occurrence accompanied by severe pain, red eyes, blurred vision, nausea, and vomiting; is an emergency condition.

2. Secondary: as a result of other illnesses or conditions such as diabetes, eye injury, or steroid use.

3. Congenital: occurs from birth due to developmental abnormalities of the eye.

Symptoms to Watch Out for

Glaucoma is often asymptomatic in the early stages. Signs that can appear include:

- Blurred or narrowed vision at the edges

- Eye pain or headache

- Red eyes, light sensitive, appear hello

- Nausea and vomiting (in acute glaucoma)

Risk Factors

The risk of glaucoma increases in individuals with:

- Age >40 years (especially >60 years)

- Family history of glaucoma

- Diabetes, hypertension, and migraines

- Long-term steroid use

- History of eye injury

- Asian and African races

Bottom of Form Glaucoma Treatment

The damage from glaucoma is permanent, but its progression can be slowed through:

- Eye drops

- Laser therapy

- Eye surgery

- Mannitol infusion in emergency conditions

Prevention and Early Detection

Glaucoma prevention efforts include:

- Age-appropriate routine eye check-ups

- Light exercise regularly

- A nutritious and balanced diet

- Limiting caffeine and salt

- Get enough rest and protect the eyes from injury.

References:

1. Azhar, F. Glaukoma. Halodoc. October 27, 2025. Available on: https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/glaukoma

2. Patricia, AG. Getting to Know Glaucoma: The Steal of Vision in Secret. Smec Eye Hospital. August 11, 2025. https://rsmatasmec.com/news/mengenal-glaukoma-si-pencuri-penglihatan-diam-diam

3. Wulandari, P. Recognize the Symptoms and Tips for Preventing Glaucoma at a Young Age. Ministry of Health. October 26, 2023. https://keslan.kemkes.go.id/view_artikel/2892/kenali-gejala-serta-tips-mencegah-glaukoma-di-usia-muda