Glaucoma is not just a single condition, but many different conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, most of which are associated with high pressure in the eye (“intraocular pressure”). The optic nerve is responsible for carrying the images we see to the brain. As the optic nerve is damaged, individuals lose their side vision, also known as peripheral vision.

Routine eye exams are extremely important in the identification and treatment of glaucoma, given some patients do not notice their vision loss until almost all of their peripheral vision is lost. In addition, glaucoma treatments may slow or prevent worsening of vision loss from glaucoma, but they cannot reverse it; therefore, any blindness or loss of vision from glaucoma is permanent.

Glaucoma can develop in one or both eyes. There are several types of glaucoma, as further explained below -

Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma. It occurs when the eye pressure is high for no identifiable reason. It is more common in African-Americans, Hispanics, individuals over the age of 60, and patients who are using steroids on or surrounding the eye (such as eye drops or steroid injections). If you have a family history of glaucoma, your risk of developing the condition is increased.

Primary angle-closure glaucoma happens when the iris obstructs the drainage ducts or “drain” of the eye, leading to a sudden halt in fluid drainage. This abrupt interruption can result in a significant increase in intraocular pressure, causing rapid damage to the optic nerve. This condition is sometimes referred to as acute glaucoma, and it requires emergency attention. It is more prevalent in individuals who are far-sighted (“hyperopic”), Asian Americans and women. The risk also increases with age. If you are experiencing symptoms such as eye pain, halos, nausea, vomiting and vision loss, it could indicate an acute glaucoma attack, requiring emergency care.

Secondary glaucoma is clogging of the drainage angle is caused by external factors such as eye trauma, eye cancer, corneal overgrowth, steroid use, infection, inflammation (uveitis), or other causes. Its effects may resemble either open-angle or angle-closure glaucoma. The risk factors are associated with the primary causes of the condition.

Normal tension glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve suffers damage without elevated intraocular pressure. This condition is more prevalent in individuals with a family history of glaucoma, a history of cardiovascular disease or those of Japanese ancestry.

Pediatric glaucoma is when children suffer from glaucoma. In these cases, a child is born with elevated intraocular pressure. Approximately 1 in 10,000 infants are affected by this condition and there appears to be a genetic component. This condition is normally treated by a pediatric ophthalmologist or glaucoma specialist. There are a few exceptional specialists in the area we can refer you to if your child has glaucoma.