Glaucoma what is it, the different types and any treatments and symptoms of Glaucoma

Screenshot of SolitairePair of Glasses SmallScreenshot of desktop covered in icons

Glaucoma is the umbrella term for the conditions that cause the pressure within the eye to increase. This high pressure in turn causes the blood vessels supplying the nerve that connects from the brain to the eye to be compressed thus reducing the functioning and may result in nerve damage or blindness.

There are two types Chronic Glaucoma, or Acute Glaucoma:

Chronic Glaucoma: (also known as open-angle)
The build up happens over a period of time caused by reduced drainage of the fluid from the eye. The reduction in vision may happen over months or years before it is noticed it is happening.  Eye Injuries and some drugs can cause an increase in speed of chronic glaucoma. Drugs can  be prescribed to reduce further reduction in vison but this reduction is not reversible.  Eye drops are the commonest form of medication.

Acute Glaucoma: (also known as closed-angle)
The build up is sudden onset due to the iris blocking the draining of the fluid.  The pressure builds up quickly and causes blurred vision to the eye, redness and is painful.

The condition can also have symptoms of headache and vomiting. This can have pre-warning symptoms such as a halo around lights in the run up to the main attack (for weeks or even months).

Long sighted people in their elderly years are at a higher risk of developing this type of glaucoma. 

Immediate medical attention needs to be sought as any damage will be permanent.

This can be treated with drugs , laser treatment or surgery.

Page>> What are Cataracts?
Page >> Eye Strain Causes
Page >> Eye Strain Symptoms

Main Menu

  • Articles
  • Contact Us
  • Useful Links

    More Links

    Privacy Policy