Glaucoma

There is formation of clear fluid (aqueous) in the anterior chamber of the eye, which filters out through the chamber via drainage system. Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the pressure that maintains balance between the formation and drainage of this liquid.

In glaucoma, there is increase in the intraocular pressure (IOP) leading to malfunctioning in the draining structures of eyes. If early detection is not done, it can lead to permanent damage in the eyes in the form of blindness.

It is usually seen in people above 40 years of age, but may also occur in babies. There is much lack of awareness amongst the people regarding the disease, thereby posing threat to vision.

Types

Primary glaucoma includes open angle glaucoma in which the aqueous fluid builds continuously in the anterior chamber of eye, thereby increasing the pressure and acute angle closure glaucoma, which forms due to abnormality in the eye structure. Closed glaucoma is an acutely painful condition.

Secondary glaucoma forms due to some underlying eye disease like tumour, inflammation or diabetes. Congenital glaucoma is a rare form seen in infants.

Symptoms

Patients may experience one or several symptoms. Symptoms include severe eye pain, patchy loss of side vision, headache, nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, tearing and enlargement of cornea.

Prevention

It is a preventable disease if due consideration is given timely. Glaucoma is hereditary in nature, thereby making the first-degree relatives more prone to its occurrence. Over 40 years of age, regular eye screening should be encouraged, as in initial stages the disease has very less signs and symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment of glaucoma aims at proper fluid drainage through the eyes. It is not a curable disease but further loss of vision can be prevented. Once diagnosed, prescribed medications should be taken on time. In later stages, surgery and lasers can be done.