Glaucoma

Jun 14, 2007 3:57 PM

Glaucoma occurs when the nerve at the back of the eye becomes damaged.

This can cause a person's sight to deteriorate and can lead to blindness.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is the name given to a group of conditions that affect the eye.

There are four different types of glaucoma - acute, chronic, developmental and secondary.

In each case, the optic nerve behind the eye is damaged. This nerve carries information from the eye to the brain enabling us to see.

This damage can be caused by a weak nerve or more usually by the build-up of fluid in the eye. This occurs when fluid in the eye cannot drain properly.

Acute glaucoma can occur suddenly and can be painful. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness.

Chronic glaucoma is the most common form of the condition. The drainage channels from the eye become blocked over time and vision gradually becomes impaired.

Developmental glaucoma mostly affects babies and young children. It is rare but potentially serious and is caused by malformation of the eye.

Secondary glaucoma occurs when another problem in the eye causes fluid to build-up and eyesight to deteriorate.

How common is it?

By the age of 40, about one person in every 100 has some form of glaucoma.

However, the incidence rises steadily as people get older.

By the age of 70, about one person in every 10 has some form of glaucoma.

People who are of African origin are more likely to develop the condition.

People who are highly short-sighted, those with diabetes and those with a family history are also at increased risk.

In the UK people over the age of 40 and with a family history of glaucoma are entitled to free eye tests on the NHS every two years.

What are the symptoms?

Acute glaucoma can be painful. The sudden increase in pressure can make the eye red.

Eyesight can deteriorate and may even blackout. There may be nausea and vomiting.

Chronic glaucoma is less easily spotted. There is no pain and the deterioration in eyesight may be subtle.

Some people go for an eye test after noticing their sight is less good in one eye than the other.

The fact that this type of glaucoma can creep up on people is one reason why doctors advise regular eye tests.

How is it treated?

Glaucoma is treated by reducing pressure on the eyes.

Eye drops are a common first approach. However, if they fail to unblock the drainage channels then an operation may be needed.

These can take the form of laser surgery or a trabeculectomy - an operation to improve drainage of the eyes.

Can it be cured?

In many cases, the damage that has been caused by the glaucoma cannot be reversed.

However, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further deterioration.