This is a group of conditions which can affect the optic nerve of the eyes that delivers the information from the eye to the brain. Early detection can help in the protection of the eyes and in the prevention of permanent vision loss. Most cases develop as the result of pressure within the eye in a condition known as ocular hypertension. Glaucoma is considered to be the second most leading cause of blindness internationally and can develop among individuals in any age although it is more common in older people. Some of the types of glaucoma include open-angle glaucoma, angle closure glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma, congenital glaucoma and pigmentary glaucoma.
Causes
Glaucoma develops when the damage to the optic nerve occurs. The eye pressure is the one of the risk factor associated with developing this condition. The fluid flows in and out of the space in front of the eyes known as the anterior chamber. The fluid exits the chamber at the open angle and flows through a meshwork-like a drain that leaves the eye. The open-angle glaucoma can develop when the fluid drains slowly through this drain and as the result, the pressure can build-up within the eyes that can damage the optic nerve. Hence, it is important to maintain the pressure within the eyes. Other conditions can also affect the pressure within the eye such as the blood pressure.
Symptoms
Most types of glaucoma do not cause any symptoms and may go unnoticed until vision loss occurs. When the optic nerve is affected, this can result in irreversible damage with varying degree of vision loss. The symptoms of glaucoma are also based on the type and the stage of the condition. The open-angle glaucoma symptoms can include patchy blind spots in the side or central vision and tunnel vision. The acute angle-closure glaucoma can include blurred vision, eye redness, halos around the lights, severe headaches and nausea. Any vision problems should be evaluated by the eye care practitioner to prevent the permanent vision loss.
Diagnosis
During an eye examination, a tonometer will be used to measure the intraocular pressure and any abnormality is an indication of the problem with the fluid in the eye such as excess fluid or problem with the drainage. The sophisticated imaging technology such as the optical coherence tomography or confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy can also produce images and measure the optic nerves and the internal structures. The visual field testing can determine the vision loss from this condition.
Treatment
Early diagnosis is important to prevent the progression of this condition. Medications such as eye drops can lower the eye pressure by helping with the proper drainage of the fluid or with the production of less fluid. The laser trabeculoplasty can help with the drainage of the fluid from the eye. Alternatively, a conventional surgery involves the procedure to make the new opening for the fluid to effectively drain from the eyes.
References
https://nei.nih.gov/health/glaucoma/glaucoma_facts
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/glaucoma/basics/tests-diagnosis/con-20024042
