Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that damages the optic nerve, which is essential for vision. Often, this damage is caused by increased pressure within the eye.
Here’s a breakdown of the causes, types, and treatments:
Causes and Risk Factors:
- Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP):
- This is the most significant risk factor. It occurs when the fluid (aqueous humor) inside the eye doesn’t drain properly, leading to a buildup of pressure.
- Other Risk Factors:
- Age: The risk increases significantly after age 60.
- Family History: Having a family history of glaucoma increases your risk.
- Ethnicity: People of African or Asian descent have a higher risk.
- Certain Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease can increase risk.
- Eye Injuries: Past eye injuries can lead to glaucoma.
- Corticosteroid Use: Prolonged use of corticosteroid eye drops can increase IOP.
- Nearsightedness or Farsightedness: Extreme cases of these conditions can increase your risk.
Types of Glaucoma:
- Open-Angle Glaucoma:
- The most common type.
- The drainage angle of the eye remains open, but the drainage channels become clogged over time.
- Develops slowly and often has no noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma:
- The drainage angle becomes blocked, causing a rapid increase in IOP.
- Can cause sudden and severe symptoms, including eye pain, blurred vision, and nausea.
- Requires immediate medical attention.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma:
- Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal IOP.
- The exact cause is unknown, but it may involve increased optic nerve sensitivity or reduced blood flow to the optic nerve.
- Congenital Glaucoma:
- Occurs in infants and young children due to abnormal eye development.
- Secondary Glaucoma: this type of glaucoma is caused by other eye conditions or medical conditions.
Treatments:
The goal of glaucoma treatment is to lower IOP and prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatments include:
- Eye Drops:
- Medications that reduce IOP by either increasing fluid drainage or decreasing fluid production.
- Laser Therapy:
- Procedures that improve fluid drainage from the eye.
- Types include laser trabeculoplasty and laser iridotomy.
- Surgery:
- Procedures that create new drainage channels or implant drainage devices.
- Examples include trabeculectomy and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).
Importance of Early Detection:
- Glaucoma often has noEarly detection and treatment can help prevent vision loss.
Key Takeaways:
- Glaucoma is a serious condition that can lead to blindness.
- Regular eye exams are essential for early detection.
- Treatment can help slow or prevent vision loss.
- It is important to consult with an ophthalmologist for any concerns about glaucoma or eye health.
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