Glaucoma is a disease that causes damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve transmits signals from the retina to the brain to produce an image. The damage to the optic nerve is most often the result of built-up intraocular pressure in the eye. Getting regular eye exams is important for the early detection of glaucoma. If diagnosed early, there is an improved chance of preventing or minimizing vision loss. However, if left untreated, permanent vision loss may occur.
There are two main types of glaucoma: open-angle and narrow-angle.
Narrow-angle is a more rare form of glaucoma. It is also known as angle-closure or closed-angle. In this type of glaucoma, the drainage canal of the eye gets blocked by the iris. This prevents fluid from draining, causing eye pressure to rise rapidly.
Open-angle is the most common form of glaucoma. In this type of glaucoma, the drainage system becomes clogged and is unable to drain the fluid properly out of the eye and, as a result, the eye pressure increases.
Open-angle glaucoma typically does not have symptoms early on. It is commonly known as the “silent thief of sight” because most people aren’t even aware they have it until vision loss occurs. Open-angle glaucoma causes the gradual loss of peripheral, or side, vision.
Narrow-angle glaucoma differs in that it has noticeable symptoms which can occur quite quickly. If you experience these symptoms, you should immediately call your ophthalmologist or go to the emergency room. Symptoms include:
Our ophthalmologists and optometrists use several simple and painless tests to help with the diagnosing of glaucoma. These tests include:
Glaucoma can be treated and managed using medications, lasers, and/or surgery. These treatments are available to help prevent further vision loss. Unfortunately, there are no treatment options to reverse vision loss that has already occurred. The main goal of these treatment options is to control eye pressure so that the optic nerve does not receive additional damage.
