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Most people never see it coming. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in the United States, yet over 70,000 people lose their vision to it every year. In fact, two out of every 100 persons is affected by glaucoma.
Glaucoma is caused when the drainage system within the eye is blocked either by trauma, hemorrhage or a physiologic nature. An increase in pressure within the eye causes pressure to build around the sensitive optic nerve fibers thus destroying the nerve and one's vision.
Symptoms of glaucoma vary depending on the specific type. The types of glaucoma include Chronic Open-Angle Glaucoma, Congenital Glaucoma, Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma and Secondary Glaucoma.
- Chronic Open-Angle Glaucoma is the most common type, and occurs primarily in persons over the age of 40. It develops as a result of aging and is symptomless, sometimes causing irreversible damage before it is discovered.
- Congenital Glaucoma is present at birth and is caused by a defect in the eye's drainage system.
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma iscaused when the colored portion of the eye presses against the drainage system causing blockage. Symptoms include severe pain in and around the eye, nausea, blurred vision and seeing rainbow-like halos.
- Secondary glaucoma results from other health problems of the body or trauma to the eye.
Comprehensive yearly eye exams for those over 40 which include a measurement of pressure in the eye (tonometry) can detect glaucoma early and prevent any irreversible damage. Damage to the optic nerve cannot be reversed, so early detection is crucial. Treatment of glaucoma can be done through medications such as eye drops or pills, or in some cases, laser treatment. Surgical procedures to form a new drainage channel in the eye are sometimes required when medication or laser treatments are not enough.
At Central Florida Eye Institute, Dr. Croley and his staff will take the time to explain this eye condition to you. Early detection, education and treatment is vital to insure continued good vision. Understanding the condition and the importance of treatment and follow-up care is a shared responsibility.
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