Glaucoma is an illness that primarily affects the optic nerve. The function of the optic neurons is to supply visual information to the brain. Glaucoma may result from elevated pressure in the eye. Over time, the high pressure will erode the optic nerve tissue, causing loss of vision or blindness. However, if it is diagnosed early, patients may not suffer additional loss of sight.
Studies indicate that for individuals above 60 years, glaucoma is the primary cause of blindness. Although the onset of glaucoma occurs at any age, the condition is common among the elderly. Most forms of glaucoma lack warning signs. It is associated with gradual progression, and the patient may fail to notice any change in vision until the ailment reaches an advanced stage.
It is not possible to reverse the loss of vision from glaucoma. Hence, the need for regular eye examinations. Elevated pressure in the eye will be diagnosed early enough and managed appropriately. Once glaucoma sets in, you will probably be on medications for the rest of your life.
Causes of Glaucoma
Fluid is produced at the back of the eye but fills the anterior part of the eye. It is drained through channels present in the iris and cornea. Note that the production of fluid from the ciliary body is continuous. In some people, the drainage angle is wide enough. While in others, it is narrow. It is about 45 degrees for most people. In the narrowed cases, the angle may be 25 degrees. If the channels are partially obstructed or blocked, there will be an increase in the pressure in the eye. Elevated pressure destroys the optic nerve causing loss of vision. The exact cause for the elevated pressure in the eye is not clear. However, physicians believe that it may result from:
- High blood pressure
- Reduced blood flow to the optic nerve
- Some medications
- Restricted drainage in the eye
- Dilating eye drops
As the optic nerve deteriorates gradually, blind spots begin to develop in the visual field. Glaucoma may be hereditary in some families. Scientists have identified genes associated with optic nerve damage and elevated eye pressure in some people.
Although anyone may develop glaucoma, others are at increased risk and require a frequent check-up by the ophthalmologist. The common risk factors for glaucoma include:
- Trauma to the eye
- Diabetes
- Individuals above 45 years
- Reduced corneal rigidity and thickness
There are five types of glaucoma that people may suffer from. They include:
- Open-angle glaucoma
- Closed-angle glaucoma
- Pigmentary glaucoma
- Normal-tension glaucoma
- Glaucoma in children
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Signs and symptoms of glaucoma will vary based on the type of glaucoma and the stage of the condition. Open-angle glaucoma is the most prevalent, and it lacks signs apart from the gradual loss of vision.
Patients with acute angle-closure glaucoma may experience blurred vision, redness in the eye, vomiting, nausea, severe headache, and vision disturbance. If not managed early enough, glaucoma may eventually result in blindness. Patients are advised to promptly reach out to their physicians if they experience the above symptoms.
Treatment of Glaucoma
The main aim of managing glaucoma is to reduce the elevated pressure and stop further vision loss. In most cases, the physician will begin treatment by recommending eye drops. In case the eye drops are ineffective or advanced treatment is required, the physician may suggest the medications as they are effective in reducing pressure. The drugs are formulated as pills or eye drops. Based on the character and stage of the condition, the doctor may opt for monotherapy or combination therapy of these medications.
If the high pressure results from a slow or blocked channel, the doctor may recommend surgery to drain the fluid. Surgery will also destroy the tissues causing increased pressure. Management of angle-closure glaucoma is different, and it is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment as soon as possible. Laser peripheral iridotomy will be carried out after unsuccessful management of glaucoma with medications. The technique involves creating small holes within the iris to facilitate the flow of fluid. There are self-care steps that can assist in the early identification of glaucoma. Hence, preventing progression and loss of vision. The tips include:
- Regular eye examination
- Exercising safely
- Wearing eye protection
- Knowing the family health history