What is the end result of glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending visual information from the eye to the brain. The most common type of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma, which usually develops slowly and painlessly. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss and blindness.

The end result of glaucoma is damage to the optic nerve and the retinal ganglion cells that make up the optic nerve. This damage can lead to a loss of peripheral vision, blind spots, and eventually total blindness. The rate at which glaucoma progresses varies from person to person, and some people may experience rapid vision loss while others may have a slower progression of the disease.

Early detection and treatment of glaucoma is important to prevent vision loss. Regular eye exams can help to identify glaucoma in its early stages, when it is more easily treatable. Treatment for glaucoma typically involves eye drops, oral medications, laser surgery, or traditional surgery to reduce eye pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.