Primary open-angle glaucoma, moderate stage Save

Understanding Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma, Moderate Stage

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) is a chronic eye disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness and is often referred to as the "silent thief of sight" because it often has no symptoms until it's too late.

There are different stages of POAG, including mild, moderate, and severe. In this article, we will focus on moderate stage POAG.

Symptoms of Moderate Stage POAG

POAG is a gradual disease, and the symptoms of moderate stage POAG are often not noticeable. However, some of the symptoms may include:

1. Increased difficulty seeing in low light conditions
2. Decreased peripheral vision
3. Blurred vision or vision loss
4. Difficulty adjusting to changes in lighting

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to see an eye doctor for an exam as soon as possible.

Causes of POAG

POAG is caused by damage to the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. The exact cause of POAG is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

1. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP)
2. Age
3. Family history of POAG
4. Thin corneas
5. Medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension

Diagnosis of POAG

POAG can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam that includes:

1. Visual acuity test
2. Visual field test
3. Dilated eye exam
4. Measurement of intraocular pressure

It's important to have regular eye exams, especially if you are over 40, have a family history of POAG, or have other risk factors.

Conclusion

POAG is a serious eye disease that can lead to irreversible blindness. It's important to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors and to have regular eye exams to catch it early. If you have been diagnosed with moderate stage POAG, it's important to work closely with your eye doctor to manage the disease and prevent further vision loss.