Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve (the part of the eye that carries the images we see from the eye to the
brain). The optic nerve is made up of many nerve fibers, like an
electric cable containing numerous wires. When damage to the
optic nerve fibers occurs, blind spots develop. These blind spots
usually go undetected until the optic nerve is significantly
damaged. If the entire nerve is destroyed, it can result in
blindness.
Early detection and treatment are the keys to preventing optic
nerve damage and blindness from glaucoma.
What Causes Glaucoma?
Inside the eye there is a continuous secretion and drainage of aqueous fluid to maintain a healthy level of pressure
within (This liquid is not part of the tears on the outer surface of the eye). If the drainage is reduced, then pressure
within the eye increases, pushing against the optic nerve and causing damage.
Who Is at Risk For Glaucoma?
Many factors determine your risk for developing the disease. The most important include:
Age
Elevated eye pressure
Family history of glaucoma
African or Hispanic ancestry
Farsightedness or nearsightedness
Past eye injuries
Thinner central corneal thickness
Systemic health problems, including diabetes, migraine headaches, and
poor circulation
Pre-existing thinning of the optic nerve
These factors are all weighed before deciding whether you need treatment for glaucoma, or whether you should be
monitored closely as a glaucoma suspect. This means your risk of developing glaucoma is higher than normal, and
you need to have regular examinations to detect the early signs of damage to the optic nerve.
How Is Glaucoma Detected?
Regular eye examinations are the best way to detect glaucoma. A glaucoma screening that checks only the pressure
of the eye is not sufficient to determine if you have glaucoma. The only sure way to detect glaucoma is to have a
complete glaucoma evaluation such as:
Intraocular pressure measurement (Tonometry)
Corneal thickness measurement (Pachymetry)
Optic nerve damage assessment (OCT)
Visual field testing (Perimetry).
These tests need to be repeated on a regular basis to monitor any changes in your condition.
How Is Glaucoma Treated?
As a rule, damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. Eye-drops, laser, and surgery in the operating room are
used to lower eye pressure and help prevent further damage. In some cases, oral medications also may be
prescribed.
Periodic examinations are very important to prevent vision loss (3-6 months). Because glaucoma can progress
without your knowledge, adjustments to your treatment may be necessary from time to time. Never change or stop
taking your medications.
Glaucoma medications can preserve your vision but they may cause:
Stinging or itching sensation
Red eyes or redness of the skin surrounding the eyes
Changes in pulse and heartbeat
Changes in energy level
Changes in breathing (especially with asthma or emphysema);
Dry mouth
Eyelash growth
Blurred vision
Change in eye color
Always make a list of the medications you take regularly and share this list with each doctor you see.