GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness. In many cases, increased pressure inside the eye causes glaucoma. The normal flow of fluid in the space at the front of the eye is altered and the fluid does not drain properly. As the fluid builds up, the pressure inside the eye rises. Unless this pressure at the front of the eye is controlled, it can damage the optic nerve and cause vision loss. Open angle glaucoma develops gradually and painlessly without symptoms and is usually found in the early stages during a routine eye exam. Closed angle glaucoma is caused by a sudden blockage of fluid draining from the eye. This happens suddenly and usually sharp eye pain and blurred vision occur at the same time.

Another type of glaucoma occurs as a complication after an injury, inflammation, or a disease such as diabetes. Congenital glaucoma is due to a defect in the eyes drainage system, which occurs as a baby is developing. Parents may notice their baby's eye getting bigger, cloudy, watering, and closing in response to light.

Anyone can get glaucoma. Higher risk persons include seniors, anyone with a family history of glaucoma, those with diabetes, and those taking steroid medication for a long time. African Americans have the highest risk of glaucoma. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness among the black population.

There are usually no early warning signs of glaucoma. Symptoms in the later stages include:

difficulty focusing on close work
seeing halos around lights
loss of peripheral vision
the onset of tunnel vision and
frequent changes of prescription glasses

It is important to understand that glaucoma is a life long disease, but it can usually be controlled with eye drops, oral medications, or in some cases, laser surgery. Surgery may be needed if medical treatment fails to reduce the pressure in the eye. Medications must be taken every day at the right times. Missing even one dose can cause an increase in pressure.

For more information about glaucoma or other vision related concerns, contact the National Eye Institute at (301) 496-5248 or Prevent Blindness America at (800) 331-2020. Visit their websites at www.nei.nih.gov and www.prevent-blindness.org.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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