Glaucoma usually affects which part(s) of the eyes?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that typically damage the optic nerve, often due to increased intraocular pressure. In most cases, glaucoma affects both eyes, even if it may be more severe in one eye than the other. This bilateral impact is important because it reflects the progressive nature of the disease, where changes can develop in both eyes over time, often without immediate symptoms.

The condition particularly affects peripheral vision first, leading to tunnel vision in advanced stages. However, peripheral vision loss alone does not encapsulate the broader impact on both eyes. The retina is also involved in vision, but glaucoma primarily impacts the optic nerve and does not specifically target the retina itself.

Understanding the bilateral nature of glaucoma helps in early detection and management, emphasizing the need for regular eye examinations, as changes can occur in both eyes simultaneously.