Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of disorders in which the pressure of fluid within the eye gradually increases to a level that irreversibly damages the sensitive tissues of the eye, most notably the optic nerve which transmits visual images to the brain.

Causes of Glaucoma

Anterior chamber is the fluid (aqueous humour) filled front portion of the eye. If the drainage of this fluid from the anterior chamber is restricted, pressure builds up within the eye causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve thereby causing a permanent loss of vision. Individuals over the age of 40 as well as persons with myopia, diabetes, or a family history of glaucoma are at an increased risk of developing glaucoma. Individuals who have sustained eye trauma or use corticosteroids are also at an increased risk.

Symptoms

Most glaucomas remain asymptomatic until advanced stage. Hence periodical check up, especially for those at risk, is necessary to detect glaucoma early. Some individuals, especially if there is a rapid build up of eye pressure, may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Pain around the eyes when coming out from darkness (eg. as soon as the person comes out of a theatre).
• Coloured halo rings seen around bulbs, especially during mornings and nights.
• Frequent change of reading glasses, headaches, pain and redness of the eyes.
• Reduced vision in dim illumination and during nights. Gradual decrease of side vision.
• Blurring of vision.

Detection

The three basic tests in the detection of glaucoma are:

• Checking the pressure inside the eye.
• Inspection of the optic nerve after dilating the pupils.
• Testing the side vision by a computer assisted test called perimetry (visual field examination).

Treatment

Glaucoma cannot be cured. Appropriate treatment and regular follow-up can preserve residual vision from further damage. Several drugs are available to reduce fluid formation within the eye or promote their drainage from the eye. For most glaucoma patients, regular use of medications will suffice to control the pressure inside the eye. However, if the pressure control is not satisfactory other modalities like laser or surgery may have to be resorted to.

Prevention

• Early detection and treatment of glaucoma, before it causes significant visual loss, is the ideal way to control the disease.
• It is essential that persons above the age of 40 have their eyes examined periodically to detect glaucoma early.
• Glaucoma is not an infectious disease, but may be hereditary. So, if any one in the family has glaucoma, it is advisable that the rest of the family members have their eyes examined, periodically.

Source : Arvind Eye care system