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Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by damage to the optic nerve. In its early stages, glaucoma may present few or no symptoms and can gradually steal sight without warning. In fact most people affected by glaucoma do not know they have it. It left undetected and untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. One of the major risk factors for glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), or pressure inside the eye. A healthy eye produces fluids, called aqueous humor, at the same rate at which it drains. High pressure occurs when the drainage system is blocked and the fluid cannot exit at a normal rate. This increased IOP pushes against the optic nerve causing gradual damage, which may result in vision loss, usually starting with the peripheral, or side vision. Increased eye pressure is often associated with gradual damage to the nerve fibers that make up the optic nerve. IOP is currently the only treatable risk factor for glaucoma. |
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Who are at risk for Glaucoma?
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How is Glaucoma Diagnosed? A comprehensive eye check-up by an ophthalmologist is the best way to detect glaucoma. A complete eye examination includes measuring IOP and evaluating the drainage angle of the eye and the optic nerve. Additionally, visual field tests are used to evaluate the peripheral vision of each eye. |
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How can glaucoma be treated? While there is no cure for glaucoma, elevated IOP is currently the only treatable risk factor. It is important to treat aggressively with the most effective products such as a prescription eye drops that can provide maximum reduction of elevated IOP with long term control. In some cases, surgery can also help. It is important for patients to use medication as prescribed and maintain regular examinations with an ophthalmologist who can evaluate glaucoma progression and treatment options. |
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What is optic nerve? The optic nerve is a bundle of more than 1 million nerve fibers. It connects the retina, the light sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye, with the brain. A healthy optic nerve is necessary for good vision. |
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How does glaucoma damage the optic nerve? In many people, increased pressure inside the eye causes glaucoma. In the front of the eye is a space called the anterior chamber. A clear fluid flows continuously in and out of this space and nourishes nearby tissues. The fluid leaves the anterior chamber at the angle where the cornea and iris meet. When the fluid reaches the angle, it flows through a spongy meshwork, like a drain, ad leaves the eye. Open-angle glaucoma gets its name because the angle that allows fluid to drain out of the anterior chamber is open. However, for unknown reasons, the fluid passes too slowly through the meshwork drain. As the fluid builds up, the pressure inside the eye rises. Unless the pressure at the front of the eye is controlled, it can damage the optic nerve and cause vision loss.
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