Glaucoma

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Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases which leads to progressive degeneration of the optic nerve. It is often, but not always, associated with raised eye pressure. The most common type of glaucoma is primary open angle glaucoma.

Individuals with a family history of glaucoma, seniors and certain races have a higher risk of developing this disease.

The progressive nerve damage leads to vision loss and in some cases blindness. With early detection, glaucoma can be treated and further damage can be reduced. There is no cure for glaucoma but treatment options include eye drops, laser trabeculoplasty and surgery.

In the early stages there are often no symptoms, therefore it is important to have regular eye examinations to detect any signs of the disease.