Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma. The eye's drainage angle stays open, but doesn't drain fluid efficiently enough, so pressure builds up gradually inside the eye over months or years.
What it is
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma. The eye's drainage angle stays open, but doesn't drain fluid efficiently enough, so pressure builds up gradually inside the eye over months or years.
Symptoms and warning signs
Usually none in the early stages. When vision loss occurs, it typically begins at the outer edges of sight, and the brain often compensates for the gap, so it goes unnoticed without testing. By the time it's noticeable on its own, meaningful damage has often already occurred.
Causes / risk factors
Risk increases with age, family history of glaucoma, diabetes, and elevated eye pressure. It can affect one or both eyes, sometimes unevenly.
How it's diagnosed
Through tonometry (eye pressure), gonioscopy (checking the drainage angle is open), OCT imaging of the optic nerve, and visual field testing for early peripheral vision loss. See comprehensive glaucoma evaluation.
Treatment approach
Most cases start with prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure. Laser treatment or surgery — MIGS or trabeculectomy — becomes appropriate if drops alone don't control pressure adequately, or if the condition is more advanced at diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Reach Puja Eye Hospital to request an appointment with Dr. Puja Sheth.