Q: What is glaucoma?

A: Glaucoma is an eye disease that can cause blindness. Glaucoma has no symptoms, but when caught early it can usually be controlled, so regular eye exams are recommended and encouraged. Pressure builds up in the eye causing damage to the optic nerve (the optic nerve sends messages to the brain so you can see). The two main forms of glaucoma are “open angle” and “closed angle”.

Q: What is the difference between “open angle” and “closed angle”?

A: “Open angle” glaucoma is the most common form of this disease. It occurs slowly as patient’s age. The “drainage” area of the eye becomes clogged and the fluid is not able to drain properly, causing eye pressure to build up slowly. This slow drainage causes loss of peripheral (side) vision. This loss is very gradual and patients may not notice it. “Closed angle” glaucoma is less common. This type of glaucoma usually comes on quickly when the drainage area is suddenly, completely blocked. Eye pressure build rapidly. Patients may experience blurred vision with halos around lights. They may also experience headaches, severe pain, nausea and vomiting. If not treated quickly, blindness can occur.

Q: Who is at risk for glaucoma?

A: Anyone can get glaucoma, but some people may be at higher risk. Some of these risk factors are as follows, African ancestry, Increasing age, A family history of glaucoma, Health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes, or Previous eye injuries and surgeries.

Q: How is glaucoma treated?

A: Early treatment can prevent or may limit vision loss from this disease. The primary goal of treating glaucoma is to lower the eye pressure, thus preventing vision loss. Your physician can suggest the appropriate treatment for you. Frequent eye exams help to monitor your eye pressure and medication effectiveness.

Q: What medications or procedures are used in the treatment of glaucoma?

A: Some eye drops and oral medications help reduce the amount of fluid your eyes make. Others increase the drainage in your eyes. These drops should be used as directed and not stopped even if you have no symptoms. If medications cause any side effects you should talk to your eye physician. In severe cases of glaucoma, procedures may be indicated to improve eye drainage. Lasers can be used to increase drainage and surgery procedures can be used to create new drainage areas.