What condition occurs when the optic nerve is damaged, resulting in vision loss?

Glaucoma is a condition characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which often occurs as a result of increased intraocular pressure. This damage can lead to progressive vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and potentially advancing to complete blindness if left untreated. The connection between elevated eye pressure and optic nerve damage is a key factor in understanding how glaucoma leads to visual impairment.

Cataracts, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment are all eye conditions, but they involve different mechanisms. Cataracts relate to a clouding of the lens, macular degeneration affects the retina primarily and leads to central vision loss, and retinal detachment involves separation of the retina from the underlying tissue, which requires immediate medical attention to preserve vision. None of these conditions primarily result from damage to the optic nerve like glaucoma does. Understanding the specific pathology of glaucoma is crucial in recognizing how it leads to vision loss, making it critical for both diagnosing and treating individuals with this condition effectively.