Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve. The optic nerves' function is to transmit images that are seen from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma usually occurs when the natural fluid of the eye is overproduced, or when the fluid does not drain adequately. The most common characteristic of glaucoma is high intraocular pressure (IOP). Left untreated, high IOP causes the delicate fibers of the optic nerve to become damaged, which may lead to blind spots and vision loss. If the entire nerve is damaged, blindness will occur.

Types of Glaucoma:

There are a variety of different types of glaucoma. The most common types are open and closed angle glaucoma. In addition, low pressure, secondary and congenital are other forms of glaucoma.

Open and Narrow Angle (OAG and NAG) Glaucoma

This type of glaucoma progresses slowly. Vision loss is not usually noticed until a substantial change in vision has occurred. In most cases, the peripheral vision is affected first.

Closed Angle Glaucoma

The symptoms of closed angle glaucoma are more noticeable. The side effects are more sudden and may include blurred vision, severe pain and nausea. If patients don't seek treatment immediately, blindness may occur.

Low Pressure (Normal Tension) Glaucoma

It is possible to experience glaucoma symptoms with normal eye pressure. The development of low pressure (normal tension) glaucoma is less understood than the OAG or NAG form, but is usually attributed to low blood pressure in vessels which bring blood to the optic nerve, or due to sensitive optic nerves.

Secondary Glaucoma

This non-traditional type of glaucoma may be caused by injury, infection, drugs and other health issues that block the drainage channels for eye fluid. Similar to open angle glaucoma, secondary glaucoma involves a gradual loss of vision.

Congenital Glaucoma

At birth, infants may possess inadequate eye drainage systems. Congenital glaucoma symptoms include: enlarged eyes, cloudy corneas, light sensitivity and excessive tearing. If not treated quickly, congenital glaucoma may lead to permanent blindness.

Glaucoma Treatment

There is no cure for glaucoma, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, glaucoma can be controlled, and vision loss can be avoided. Forms of treatment include:

• Eye Drops
• Medication
• Laser Treatment and/or Surgery

The use of medication and eye drops are the most common remedies. Different results are achieved depending upon the type of medication used. Some eye drops allow for more rapid draining, while others decrease the production of new fluid.

Prevention

Individuals are more at risk if they have elevated internal eye pressure, are over the age of 60, have a family history of glaucoma, are extremely nearsighted, have diabetes or are of African-American descent.

The best ways to prevent glaucoma are:

• Living a healthy lifestyle- hypertension and obesity have been linked to high intraocular pressures.
• Wearing eye protection- eye injuries can lead to secondary glaucoma. When playing sports or using power tools always wear goggles or safety eyewear.
• Getting annual eye exams- early diagnosis of high (intraocular) pressures can reduce the threat of permanent vision loss.

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If you have glaucoma or are at risk of developing glaucoma, we encourage you to contact us today at 1-773-775-9755 to schedule an exam.