Which eye disease damages the optic nerve, usually due to increased intraocular pressure?

• A. Glaucoma
• B. Dry Eye Syndrome
• C. Night Blindness
• D. Retinal Detachment

Answer: (A)

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, usually because intraocular pressure is elevated. The extra pressure injures the nerve fibers as they travel from the retina to the brain, leading to progressive loss of visual field that often begins at the periphery. Early glaucoma can be asymptomatic, but findings like an enlarged optic cup on examination and abnormal visual field testing indicate nerve damage. The main goal of treatment is to lower intraocular pressure to prevent further damage, using medications (eye drops), laser therapy, or surgical approaches.

Dry eye syndrome affects the surface of the eye from tear film instability and causes irritation, not optic nerve damage from high pressure. Night blindness is a difficulty seeing in low light due to rod dysfunction or vitamin A issues. Retinal detachment involves the retina peeling away from its underlying layers and presents with sudden symptoms like flashes, floaters, or a curtain across vision, rather than optic nerve damage from pressure.