Glaucoma
What is the main difference between glaucoma and cataracts?
The primary difference between these two eye conditions is that they have different causes. Glaucoma is caused by a buildup of fluid inside your eye which causes raised Intra Ocular Pressure. Cataracts are caused by an accumulation of broken-down proteins in your eye which causes normal lens to become opaque by losing its transparency. The outcome of these two conditions also differ. Cataract surgery can often restore good vision. But if you lose some of your eyesight from glaucoma, your vision loss is likely permanent.
Are they connected in any way?
You can have glaucoma and cataracts at the same time. In fact, sometimes one can lead to the other. Sometimes a cataract becomes so large that it blocks your eye’s natural drainage system. Doctors may be able to remove the cataract through surgery, reopening the blocked drain and reducing pressure on the optic nerve. It’s also very common for cataracts to form after glaucoma surgery.
Is one more serious than the other?
Both conditions are serious. Early detection is the key to preserving your vision and maintaining the health of your eyes. Cataract surgery is a common procedure, and it usually results in a successful outcome for most people. Because your vision can often be restored after surgery, cataracts usually don’t lead to permanent vision loss.
Glaucoma treatments focus on reducing the fluid buildup in your eye. So far, researchers haven’t found a way to regenerate optic nerve fibers that may have been damaged by glaucoma. If you lose some of your vision because of glaucoma, it’s likely to be permanent.
Sudden-onset glaucoma is a serious health problem. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately:
(1) severe eye pain
(2) nausea or vomiting
(3) eye redness
(4) blurry vision
Glaucoma and cataracts can both lead to vision loss if they’re not diagnosed and treated early. Both conditions can cause blurry vision as well as other symptoms.
It’s important to have regular eye exams to ensure that glaucoma or cataracts are detected early enough to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear, especially as you get older.
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