Glaucoma is often called “the silent thief of sight” because it gradually damages the optic nerve without obvious symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, including in Nigeria.
At AMARA MEDICARE, we provide advanced eye exams and early detection services to help prevent vision loss from glaucoma.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this damage can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated.
There are several types of glaucoma:
-
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): The most common type, develops slowly and painlessly.
-
Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Develops suddenly with severe pain, nausea, and blurred vision; requires urgent care.
-
Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure.
-
Congenital Glaucoma: Present at birth and requires early surgical intervention.
Who Is at Risk?
Certain groups are at higher risk of developing glaucoma:
-
Adults over 40 years
-
People with a family history of glaucoma
-
Individuals with high eye pressure or ocular hypertension
-
People with diabetes, hypertension, or other chronic conditions
-
Individuals of African descent, who may develop glaucoma at a younger age
Why Glaucoma Is Called the “Silent Thief of Sight”
-
Early stages often have no symptoms
-
Vision loss starts at the peripheral (side) vision
-
Gradual progression makes it hard to notice until central vision is affected
This makes regular eye exams critical, especially for high-risk individuals.
Symptoms of Advanced Glaucoma
-
Loss of peripheral vision
-
Tunnel vision
-
Difficulty adjusting to darkness
-
Blurred vision or halos around lights
-
Severe eye pain, nausea, or vomiting (in acute angle-closure glaucoma)
If you experience sudden eye pain or vision changes, seek urgent medical attention.
How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed
A comprehensive eye exam includes:
-
Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure
-
Optic nerve assessment: Evaluates nerve health using imaging
-
Visual field testing: Detects peripheral vision loss
-
Gonioscopy: Examines the drainage angle of the eye
-
OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Detects early optic nerve damage
At AMARA MEDICARE, we use advanced diagnostic tools for early detection and accurate monitoring of glaucoma.
Treatment Options for Glaucoma
While glaucoma cannot be cured, early treatment can slow or prevent vision loss:
1. Eye Drops
Medications reduce eye pressure and protect the optic nerve.
2. Oral Medications
Used when eye drops alone are insufficient to control eye pressure.
3. Laser Therapy
Laser trabeculoplasty or iridotomy improves drainage in certain types of glaucoma.
4. Surgery
Trabeculectomy or other procedures help lower eye pressure when medications fail.
Early detection and treatment are key to preserving vision.
Preventing Glaucoma-Related Blindness
-
Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams, especially after age 40
-
Monitor family history and risk factors
-
Take prescribed medications consistently
-
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with exercise and proper diet
-
Avoid smoking and manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
Glaucoma Eye Care in Lagos
Glaucoma can silently steal vision, but early detection and treatment save sight.
Visit AMARA MEDICARE for:
✔ Comprehensive glaucoma screening
✔ Advanced optic nerve imaging
✔ Personalized treatment plans
✔ Ongoing monitoring to prevent vision loss
Schedule your glaucoma screening today and protect your vision before it’s too late.
📍 Visit: 1 Joe Ugochukwu Street, Greenfield Estate, Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos 📞 Call/WhatsApp: 08150376713
📍Visit: Plot 76B Eleganza Gardens (opposite VGC), Ajah, Lagos 📞 Call/WhatsApp: 08150376696
📍Visit: 30 Gbangbala Street, Ikate Lekki, Lagos 📞 Call/WhatsApp: 07084719775
📍 Visit: FF01 New Era Building, Cardinal Okogie (Monastery / Shoprite) Road, Sangotedo, Lagos 📞 Call/WhatsApp: 08150376698
🌐 www.amaramedicare.com