ABOUT GLAUCOMA (for FAQs, click here)
Glaucoma is an eye condition associated with damage to the optic nerve resulting in vision loss. The degree of vision loss is dependant on the severity and duration of the condition. The primary factor that plays a role in developing glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). People who consistently have higher than normal IOP are considered to have ocular hypertension (OH). People can have OH and not have any vision loss. Over time, this high IOP when left untreated, may cause damage to the optic nerve resulting in vision loss. Once damage starts to occur, the person is said to have glaucoma. It is important to understand that glaucoma can be caused by many factors other than high IOP. Your Ophthalmologist can help explain all the causes of glaucoma.
There are three main types of glaucoma. The first and most common type is called primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). This type of glaucoma primarily occurs in persons over age forty and is symptomless causing a progressive loss of vision. The second type of glaucoma is called normal tension glaucoma. This occurs when a person has IOP in the "normal" range but the "normal" range for that particular person may still be too high. The third type of glaucoma is called angle-closure glaucoma. In this type of glaucoma there is a blockage in the drainage area of the eye, resulting in a rapid increase in IOP. A person may experience severe pain, blurred vision, nausea, and possible permanent damage to their eyesight. Your Ophthalmologist can tell you more about the other types of glaucoma.