glaucoma

what is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a condition affecting the peripheral (side) vision and often damages the optic nerve. It is commonly a slow progressing condition leading to tunnel-vision, leaving central vision intact. Glaucoma can be signaled by high eye pressures but there are some people with normal eye pressures who also have glaucoma. Glaucoma is the leading cause for irreversible blindness worldwide, with 1 in 10 Australians over the age of 80 who will develop glaucoma; 50% who will be undiagnosed

types

There are several types of glaucoma; the most common type is Chronic OPEN-angled.

1. Open-Angle – Pressure build-up caused by poor draining of fluid inside the eye

2. Closed-Angle - Sudden blockage of fluid in the eye causing high pressure

3. Secondary – Pre-existing problem for e.g. cataracts which eventually leads to glaucoma

4. Congenital – Poor eye drainage system in infants and young children from birth

Signs and Symptoms

Glaucoma is often referred to as the “Silent Thief” for vision loss because most people are unaware of any signs or symptoms, however some signs and symptoms can include:

• Sudden eye pain or aching

• Red or excessively watery eyes

• Haloes or glare

• Sudden or slow loss of vision

• Often bumping into side objects

• Increased sensitivity to light

• Migraines, headaches or nausea

• Difficulty adjusting to low light

Causes

Some risk factors for glaucoma include family history, diabetes, heart disease, long-sightedness or short-sightedness, eye injuries, long-term steroidal use and high blood pressure. It is important to have regular eye checks for glaucoma if you fit in any of these categories.

Treatment

Glaucoma is usually treated by lowering high eye pressures with eye drops or sometimes laser treatment to physically allow proper drainage. Monitoring optic nerve damage by undertaking field tests is also part of the treatment. Early detection is crucial as there is no cure for glaucoma.