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Volume II: Open Angle Glaucoma and Angle Closure Glaucoma - A Comprehensive Guide

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Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the nerve that sends visual information from the eye to the brain. Open angle glaucoma and angle closure glaucoma are two of the most common types of glaucoma.

The Glaucomas: Volume II - Open Angle Glaucoma and Angle Closure Glaucoma

by Roberto Sampaolesi

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Open angle glaucoma is a chronic condition that develops gradually over time. It is the most common type of glaucoma, affecting about 3 million people in the United States. Open angle glaucoma occurs when the fluid that circulates inside the eye does not drain properly, causing pressure to build up inside the eye. This pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.

Angle closure glaucoma is a less common but more serious type of glaucoma. It occurs when the iris (the colored part of the eye) blocks the flow of fluid out of the eye. This can cause a sudden increase in pressure inside the eye, which can lead to rapid vision loss.

Causes and Risk Factors

Open Angle Glaucoma

The exact cause of open angle glaucoma is not known, but it is thought to be related to a combination of factors, including:

* Increased production of fluid inside the eye * Decreased drainage of fluid from the eye * Changes in the shape of the eye

Risk factors for open angle glaucoma include:

* Age (over 60) * Family history of glaucoma * African American race * Diabetes * High blood pressure * Nearsightedness

Angle Closure Glaucoma

Angle closure glaucoma is caused by the iris blocking the flow of fluid out of the eye. This can happen for a number of reasons, including:

* A narrow angle between the iris and the cornea (the clear front cover of the eye) * Thickening of the iris * Enlargement of the lens of the eye

Risk factors for angle closure glaucoma include:

* Age (over 40) * Asian descent * Farsightedness * Small eyes * Thick corneas

Symptoms

Open Angle Glaucoma

Open angle glaucoma often has no symptoms in its early stages. As the condition progresses, you may experience:

* Patchy blind spots in your peripheral (side) vision * Gradual loss of central vision * Blurred vision * Difficulty seeing in low light * Pain or discomfort in the eyes

Angle Closure Glaucoma

Angle closure glaucoma can cause a sudden onset of symptoms, including:

* Severe pain in the eyes * Headache * Nausea and vomiting * Blurred vision * Halos around lights * Redness of the eyes * Sudden vision loss

Diagnosis

Glaucoma is diagnosed with a comprehensive eye exam. Your doctor will check your:

* Visual acuity * Eye pressure * Optic nerve * Drainage angle

Your doctor may also order additional tests, such as:

* Visual field test * OCT (optical coherence tomography) * Gonioscopy

Treatment

The goal of glaucoma treatment is to lower eye pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment options include:

* Eye drops: Eye drops can be used to reduce the production of fluid in the eye or to improve drainage of fluid from the eye. * Laser surgery: Laser surgery can be used to create a new drainage pathway for fluid in the eye. * Traditional surgery: Traditional surgery can be used to create a new drainage pathway for fluid in the eye or to widen the angle between the iris and the cornea.

Outlook

The outlook for glaucoma depends on the type of glaucoma and the stage at which it is diagnosed. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent vision loss. However, even with treatment, some people with glaucoma will experience some degree of vision loss.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent glaucoma, but you can reduce your risk by:

* Getting regular eye exams * Controlling your blood pressure * Managing your diabetes * Avoiding smoking * Eating a healthy diet * Exercising regularly

Open angle glaucoma and angle closure glaucoma are two common types of glaucoma that can lead to vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent vision loss. If you have any of the symptoms of glaucoma, see your doctor right away.

The Glaucomas: Volume II - Open Angle Glaucoma and Angle Closure Glaucoma

by Roberto Sampaolesi

5 out of 5