Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the United States, and can steal your sight without warning. This is due to the fact that in its early stages, glaucoma has no symptoms. As a matter of fact, it is estimated that as much as fifty percent of the people affected by glaucoma may not know they have it. However, loss of sight from glaucoma may be prevented with early detection and treatment.
Inside the human eye is a fluid called aqueous humor. To maintain a healthy level of intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye, a small amount of this fluid is produced naturally, while an equal amount flows out of the eye through a small drainage system. However, if this drainage system becomes narrow or blocked, the pressure from the fluid can build up and put pressure on the optic nerve within the eye. When this happens, the nerve becomes damaged and vision can be lost.
Glaucoma falls into two basic categories; open-angle and closed-angle. Open angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma in the United States. The risk of developing chronic open-angle glaucoma increases with age. The drainage angle of the eye becomes less efficient over time, and pressure within the eye gradually increases, which can damage the optic nerve. Most people with this type of glaucoma have no symptoms and no early warning signs. If open-angle glaucoma is not diagnosed and treated, it can cause a gradual loss of vision. This type of glaucoma develops slowly and sometimes without noticeable sight loss for many years. It usually responds well to medication, especially if caught early and treated. Closed-angle glaucoma (also known as narrow angle or acute glaucoma) is more rare than the open-angle type. With this type, the pressure within the eye rises very quickly due to a blockage of the drainage canal. Symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma may include headaches, eye pain, nausea, rainbows around lights at night, nausea and vomiting, and very blurred vision. These symptoms indicate a true eye emergency. Unless this type of glaucoma is treated quickly, blindness can result.
Types of Treatment for Glaucoma
Medications
A number of medications are available to treat glaucoma. Often times, these are in the form of eyedrops taken daily. These medications lower eye pressure, either by decreasing the amount of aqueous fluid produced within the eye or by improving the flow through the drainage angle.
Laser Surgery
Lasers may be used to treat glaucoma by creating paths for the excess fluid to drain properly. This decreases the pressure within the eye. Some people may need the laser surgery more than once to maintain the lower pressures. Medications may also be prescribed following laser surgery to maintain lower intraocular pressures.
Conventional Surgery
Sometimes conventional (non-laser) surgery is needed to create a new drainage pathway in the eye. The new drainage hole allows fluid to flow out of the eye and helps lower eye pressure. This prevents or reduces damage to the optic nerve. Treatment for glaucoma requires close teamwork between you and your eye doctor. While your doctor may prescribe treatment for glaucoma, only you can make sure that you follow your doctor's instructions and take your medications as prescribed. Remember, regular and thorough eye examinations by your eye doctor are the best way to detect glaucoma and preserve sight.
