Glaucoma
is a complex eye disease in which gradual damage to optic nerve can lead to
complete vision loss. In some cases, it happens as a result of increase in
Intraocular Pressure (IOP) inside the eyes.
The
normal eye pressure ranges from 12 to 22 mm Hg. If the pressure is higher than
22, it is considered to be an increased eye pressure. If the IOP is higher than
the normal and the person does not show signs of glaucoma, this medical
condition is known as ocular hypertension. However, high eye pressure alone
does not cause Glaucoma, but, it is a significant risk factor.
There
are two different types of glaucoma:
Ø Angle
Closure
Ø Open
Angle
Angle
Closure is less common as compared to Open Angle Glaucoma, but it causes more
vision loss if not treated properly on time. It occurs when iris blocks water
movement out of the eye, enhancing the eye pressure (IOP). The ultimate
treatment for this disease is “Iridotomy”
in which a hole is made within the iris with the help of laser surgery in order
to avoid blocking of water movement.
The
older persons ranging above 60 are at an acute risk of developing angle closure
glaucoma. It affects women 50% more often than men possibly because of smaller
eyes.
Early
detection through regular eye exams play a vital role in protecting one`s
vision from damage caused by glaucoma. These tests include Tonometry,
Gonioscopy, Perimetry, Opthalmoscopy and Pachymetry.
“The Open
Ophthalmology Journal” is one of Bentham Science
Publishers Open Access online journal, which publishes research articles,
reviews, letters and guest edited single topic issues in all areas of
experimental and clinical research in ophthalmology and vision science.
