What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the eye's optic nerve and result in vision loss and blindness. The damage occurs when the normal fluid pressure inside the eyes slowly rises. Increased intraocular (inside the eye) pressure damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting images to the brain. If the elevated eye pressure continues, glaucoma will worsen one’s vision. Without treatment, it can cause blindness within a few years.
What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
According to the National Eye Institute, only half of the people who have glaucoma are aware of it because the disease is asymptomatic in its earliest stages. As the disease progresses, any of the following symptoms may appear:
• Loss of peripheral vision
• Difficulty focusing on objects
• Presence of haloes around lights
• Blurred vision
Left untreated, glaucoma will degrade peripheral vision until the patient can see only what is directly in front of him/her. Over time, straight-ahead vision may decrease until no vision remains.
How is glaucoma detected?
Glaucoma tests are painless and can take place during a routine eye exam. First the eye is dilated so the patient’s vision and optic nerve can be examined. Then, a procedure called tonometry measures eye pressure. Finally, visual field testing may be included to check peripheral vision.
How is glaucoma treated?
Patients need to talk with their ophthalmologist to determine which treatment option is best for their particular case. Currently, treatment options include prescription eye drops, microsurgery, and laser surgery. The microsurgery seeks to reduce ocular pressure by creating a new channel to drain fluid. There are three types of laser surgery available:
- Trabeculoplasty (A laser pulls open the trabecular meshwork drainage area)
- Iridotomy (A tiny hole is made in the iris, allowing the fluid to flow more freely)
- Cyclophotocoagulation (a laser beam treats areas of the ciliary body, reducing the production of fluid)
Who is at risk for glaucoma?
Because most people with glaucoma have no early symptoms or pain, early detection (through ophthalmic examination) is critical to preventing vision loss. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends eye examinations at least every one-to-two years for:
• African Americans and Latinos over age 40
• Anyone over age 65
• People with a family history of glaucoma
• Individuals who have experienced a serious eye injury
• People with diabetes (yearly exams are recommended)
Are children at risk?
While far less common, babies and children can develop glaucoma. It is a leading cause of blindness in children especially in the developing world. Childhood glaucoma is a more complex chronic condition than the more common form of glaucoma that occurs in adults. It often requires multiple procedures examinations, and careful lifelong follow-up. With early detection and prompt effective treatment, these children can maximize their potential and sometimes achieve near normal vision in at least in one eye.