Glaucoma: why you don’t see it coming
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve without pain or early warning signs. Understanding this silent mechanism is understanding why a simple regular check-up can save sight.
Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve, most often linked to excessive pressure inside the eye. It progresses slowly, without pain or blurred vision at first — which is precisely what makes it dangerous.
Vision loss that starts at the edges
Contrary to popular belief, glaucoma does not first attack central vision but peripheral vision. The brain “fills in” these missing areas, so nothing is noticed for years. By the time the patient finally notices a problem, part of the optic nerve is already irreversibly damaged.
Who should be screened, and when
A check-up is recommended from the age of 40, then every 2 to 3 years. Screening starts earlier and is done more often in cases of:
- family history: having a close relative with the disease increases the risk about 3-fold;
- high myopia, African or Caribbean origin;
- diabetes, or prolonged cortisone treatment.
A quick, painless screening
It relies on three complementary examinations, carried out on site: measurement of the intraocular pressure, examination of the optic nerve by OCT, and a visual field test to map peripheral vision. Everything takes a single consultation and is not painful.
Lifelong follow-up, but a normal life
Glaucoma cannot be cured but can be very well controlled, most often with a simple daily eye drop, sometimes with laser or surgery. With regular follow-up, the great majority of patients keep good vision throughout their lives.