A compulsory part of an eye examinations at Optomeyes is a check for signs of glaucoma.
Glaucoma is a condition in which the nerve cells which transmit information from the eye to the brain become damaged. This prevents visual information from getting from the retina in the eye to the brain. In most cases, glaucoma does not have any symptoms until late in the condition when permanent damage has occurred. The longer the disease if left untreated the greater the likelihood of damage. If untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness.
Glaucoma is often associated with a build up of pressure in the eye. The eye is normally filled with fluid, which is constantly being replaced. If excessive amount of fluid are produced, or if it cannot drain away properly, the pressure inside the eye can increase. In some forms of glaucoma, the pressure inside the eye can become extremely high, while in other the pressure may remain normal.
The exact causes of glaucoma are unknown. In some cases the drainage network of the eye may not be formed properly , or may become blocked by natural material or due to injury; in other cases there is no clear cause.
Glaucoma usually occurs after 40 years of age and often has a blood family history. Glaucoma cannot be prevented (except cases due to eye injury), but early detection by your optometrist and early treatment is the best way to control the problem. Regular eye examinations are important. Treatment usually involves using eye drops and in some circumstances laser surgery.
