Glaucoma is a vision-threatening disease with two basic types – open-angle and closed-angle.
Open-angle glaucoma is the most common and can go undetected for years with gradual decline in vision. The primary symptoms are gradual loss of peripheral vision and then tunnel vision in the advanced stages of the disease.
Closed-angle glaucoma is rarer but occurs more rapidly with much more severe symptoms, including eye pain, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision and a halo effect around lights.
Both open- and closed-angle glaucoma can be effectively treated with vision preserved, especially if closed-angle cases are detected early.
Glaucoma essentially is a result of partially obstructed, narrowed or blocked drainage channels in the eye. In some cases, the disease is a result of an eye injury or inflammation, tumor, advanced cataracts or diabetes. Age, ethnicity, family history and other medical conditions also can be factors.
Early detection is critical for the best outcomes of a highly treatable condition. If diagnosed with glaucoma, treatment options include medications, such as eye drops, laser therapy and/or surgical procedures to open drainage channels.
University Eye Specialists recommends annual exams with dilation to determine the overall health of your eyes.
