Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure within the eye. Assessment and treatment can limit risks such as vision loss.
Glaucoma is a build-up of pressure within the eye that can lead to serious vision loss and blindness. When pressure in the eye increases, it can begin to damage the optic nerve, irreversibly affecting vision.
Early detection of glaucoma allows it to be treated to prevent serious vision loss.
The eye regulates pressure through something called a drainage angle. Open-angle glaucoma occurs when this becomes partially blocked leading to a build-up of pressure. Open-angle is the most common type of glaucoma, accounting for up to 90% of cases. It is also the most gradual, meaning it is easier to manage with treatments to control pressure in the eye.
There are initially no symptoms with open-angle glaucoma and it is usually identified during an eye exam. Eventually, reduced peripheral vision will become noticeable and eyesight will gradually deteriorate.
This type of glaucoma is rarer and more serious than open-angle glaucoma. When eye pressure builds up quickly, this can cause severe symptoms and permanent vision loss. Closed-angle glaucoma, also called acute-angle closure glaucoma, is considered a medical emergency.
Symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma will appear rapidly. They include severe eye pain, red eyes, headache, nausea, blurry vision and coloured halos around bright lights.
One rare type of glaucoma is congenital glaucoma in which the condition is present from birth or emerges in early childhood. Congenital glaucoma is divided into primary and secondary cases: the former occurs independently of any underlying causes while the latter may be the result of another condition or injury.
Regular eye examinations offer the best opportunity to catch the condition early on, allowing for more effective treatment. Optometrists can diagnose the condition by checking the pressure within the eye, carrying out a visual field test or examining the optic nerve using a slit lamp or advanced scanning technology. As with most eye conditions, it is better to diagnose glaucoma sooner rather than later.
The condition is much more common among older people, but there are other factors as well. For example, people of African descent are more likely to develop the condition as are those who have a close family member with glaucoma.
Our experts can assist you in booking an appointment to discuss the most suitable treatment options for your specific needs.
