Seldom can loss of
vision occur so surreptitiously. Glaucoma is an irreversible damage to
fibers of the optic nerve that may be the result of transient or
persistent increases in eye pressure. Other factors such as the
regulation of the blood supply to the eye may be a major risk factor
for glaucoma damage. Glaucoma is the third largest cause of blindness
in the U.S. after macular degeneration and cataracts. There are
different forms of glaucoma but the condition is usually first
detected by careful examination in an ophthalmologist's office.
Components of the
examination to establish a correct diagnosis of glaucoma consist of:
-
A family history.
There is a four-fold risk of having glaucoma if a blood relative
has had this condition. Afro-Americans have a 4-5 times higher
incidence of glaucoma than do whites.
-
An examination of
the angle between the iris and the cornea to check for adequate
fluid drainage.
-
An examination of
the optic nerve by pupil dilation.
-
A visual field test
to determine functioning of the optic nerve.
Once damage to the optic nerve has occurred and visual deficits found, there is no treatment that can reverse this condition. However, there are several preventive therapies that can be administered once the diagnosis of glaucoma has been made to limit the progression of the disease and save the patient's sight.
Treatments include:
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