Glaucoma...

Glaucoma is a serious eye disorder that can cause irreversible blindness. In this condition, there is destruction of the optic nerve leading to a progressive deterioration in vision. An increase in pressure within the eye is usually the culprit.

What causes glaucoma?

In glaucoma, there is increased pressure in the eye. This increased pressure results when the liquid constantly produced inside the eye, called aqueous humor, is unable to drain out of the eye. As a result, blood vessels that nourish the retina and optic nerves are squeezed, effectively reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to these vital tissues. The increased pressure likewise causes mechanical damage to the structures that comprise the optic nerve. All these contribute to the development of visual loss.

Who are at risk for glaucoma?

Glaucoma can occur in people of all ages. It is more common in people who are over 40 years old. Only about 1% to 2% of cases occur in infants, in whom it is called congenital glaucoma. People who are diabetic, very nearsighted, and those with relatives who have glaucoma, have an increased risk in developing the disease. Glaucoma can also result from steroid use, and occur as result of other eye disorders such as infection, inflammation, injury and cataract.

What are the complications?

Undiscovered glaucoma will lead to progressive loss of vision, or even blindness. Peripheral vision --- the top, side and bottom areas of vision --- are usually affected, and lost, first. This loss in vision often goes unnoticed. Then, as the glaucomatous damage worsens, "tunnel vision" becomes narrower and narrower.

Are there ways to prevent glaucoma?

There are certain eyes which possess anatomical characteristics that may predispose it to the development of glaucoma. Identifying these eyes and instituting the proper management may prevent the onset of glaucoma. The glaucomas which occur as a consequence of other disease conditions, may be prevented if these predisposing disease conditions are treated appropriately.

What is important to remember?

The key to successful glaucoma treatment is early detection, appropriate and adequate institution of treatment, and regular monitoring of the disease.

Once diagnosed, glaucoma requires constant lifelong care.

For patients with glaucoma, the importance of keeping eye pressure under control cannot be overemphasized. Eye drops, laser surgery, oral medications and microsurgery are quite successful in controlling eye pressure over long periods of time. Regular check-ups with the ophthalmologist are mandatory even after medications, laser or surgery have successfully controlled the eye pressures