Glaucoma



Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is the loss of vision due to increased pressure on the eyes optic nerve. It can affect individuals of all ages. The natural drainage of the eye becomes blocked and causes pressure to increase inside the eye putting pressure on the optic nerve. The optic nerve can be thought of as a cable that delivers information to the brain. If this cable is damaged or pinched, less information can get through.

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Types of Glaucoma

Open Angle Glaucoma

If not diagnosed, it can lead to gradual loss of vision. This occurs when the eyes drainage canals become clogged over time; much like a clogged pipe. Loss in the visual field is the most common preliminary symptom in the form of peripheral vision loss. If eye pressure remains high, tunnel vision will develop. Genereally will respond to medication if detected early.

Closed Angle Glaucoma

Occurs very quickly as drainage in the eye is blocked suddenly. Symptoms include blurred vision, headaches, eye pain, and multi-colored halos around lights when viewed at night. Can be treated with surgery.

Congenital Glaucoma

Can be hereditary and is generally diagnosed before the age of 1. It is caused by a defect in the development of the drainage system of the eye before birth. This leads to an increase in inner eye pressure which then damages the optic nerve. Symptoms include unusually large eyes, excessive tearing, cloudy eyes, and sensitivity to light. Treatment can include surgery, eye drops and oral medications.

Risk Factors

Elevated internal eye pressure

Age: Increased risk over age 60

Family history

Nearsightedness increases your risk

Prolonged corticosteroid use

Tests

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After a thorough eye exam, specific tests for glaucoma include

Intraocular Pressure Measurement

Visual Field Test

Stereoscopic optic nerve tests

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Citations:

The Eye Digest, University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary (May 19, 2009). Retrieved on 7/1/2010, from

Glaucoma Research Foundation. Retrieved 7/1/2010, from

Haddrill, M and Heiting, G. (2004). Glaucoma. Retrieved July 1, 2010, from All About Vision website:



Lueck, A. (2004). Functional Vision:A Practitioners Guide to Evaluation and Intervention (p. 56). New York, NY:AFB Publications.

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (July 17, 2008). Retrieved from

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