The Isolation of Illness: My Journey with Glaucoma

By: Bridget Mensah

Almost a decade ago, my life changed forever. I was diagnosed with a rare type of glaucoma, Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG), after a terrifying incident where I almost got hit by a car while taking my kids to school. Little did I know, my peripheral vision was compromised, and I didn’t see the car coming from my side.

Glaucoma, a complex eye condition, damages the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and potential blindness. It’s often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP), although not all types are pressure-related. My ACG diagnosis meant I had a narrow drainage angle in my eye, causing sudden, severe eye pain and vision loss if left untreated.

My journey with glaucoma has been isolating, to say the least. Friends and family struggled to understand the constant eye pain, blurred vision, and nausea that came with it. They’d say, “Have faith, God is in control,” which made me feel like I wasn’t having enough faith. The fear of waking up one day and going blind was a constant stress point.

I had to adapt to a new normal:

• Using eye drops to reduce IOP, which sometimes caused temporary blurred vision
• Dealing with the side effects of medications
• Undergoing laser surgery
• Attending regular check-ups and monitoring

The emotional toll was immense:

• Constant explanations and reassurances to loved ones
• Feeling like a burden
• Fear of losing vision or going blind
• Inability to participate in activities
• Feeling disconnected and alone

But I refused to let glaucoma define me. I began sharing my story, raising awareness, and connecting with others who understood the struggles. I learned to focus on my abilities, not limitations, and celebrate small victories.

Glaucoma may have taken some of my vision, but it won’t take my spirit. I’m breaking down barriers and building a supportive community, one story at a time.

Types of Glaucoma:

• Open-Angle Glaucoma (OAG)
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG)
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma (NTG)
• Congenital Glaucoma
• Secondary Glaucoma

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Age (over 40)
• Family history
• Ethnicity (African, Asian, or Hispanic descent)
• Diabetes, hypertension, or other health conditions
• Eye injuries or surgeries

Symptoms:

• Blurred vision
• Eye pain or pressure
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seeing halos around lights
• Redness or swelling of the eye
• Vision loss or blindness (if left untreated)

Let’s work together to raise awareness and understanding, and create a more inclusive and compassionate community for those living with glaucoma na it’s not easy.