What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a condition where there is higher than normal pressure in the eye. An increase in fluid and pressure in the eye damages nerve cells, which send information from the eye to the brain.
Glaucoma causes a slow loss of vision. Side vision is lost first. Symptoms often go undetected as one eye adapts to changes in the other. The damage caused is permanent and if left untreated glaucoma can cause blindness.
In this article:
Glaucoma signs & symptoms
Glaucoma risk factors
Glaucoma diagnosis
Glaucoma treatment & management
Glaucoma signs & symptoms
The most common type of glaucoma is primary open-angle glaucoma. Unfortunately symptoms only appear after significant damage has been done. This damage occurs slowly over time and is permanent.
Early diagnosis can help slow the progression of the condition and minimise loss of vision.
Signs and symptoms of glaucoma can include:
- Loss of side vision
- Increased pressure in the eye
- Severe eye pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Halos or rainbow colours seen around lights
Glaucoma risk factors
Glaucoma is common in ageing people but can occur at any age. It is recommended that people over 40 years have their eyes checked regularly by an optometrist. A person with a family member with glaucoma or in a high-risk group should have an eye check earlier (35 years) and regularly.
Ask your doctor or optometrist for more advice.
Risk factors for glaucoma include:
- Family history
- Diabetes
- Eye injury or trauma
- High blood pressure
- Migraine
- Some medications (cortisone drugs)
(Source Glaucoma Australia 2008)
Glaucoma diagnosis
Diagnosing glaucoma involves a simple eye exam by an optometrist. An optometrist will look at the optic nerve, check for pressure in the eye and test vision. The tests are painless.
Glaucoma treatment & management
There is no cure for glaucoma. Glaucoma can usually be controlled with regular use of eye drops and medication. Eye drops help reduce pressure in the eye. Surgery may be performed for more severe cases of glaucoma if medication or laser treatment fails.
Helpful resources
- The Glaucoma Foundation of Australia can help people with glaucoma find a support group in their area contact Glaucoma Australia on 1800 500 880.
- The Optometrists Association of Australia have a number of interesting articles about eye disorders and eye care.
- For help with caring for someone with low vision contact Vision Australia.
Related articles
References
Optometrist Association Australia 2008
Glaucoma
Accessed 26/07/08
Glaucoma Australia 2008
What is glaucoma?
Accessed 26/07/08
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