Glaucoma is a disease affecting the optic nerve of the eye. An abnormal pressure in the eye destroys the optic nerve cells, causing a loss of visual field. Glaucoma occurs mainly in people over 40 years.
The two most common forms of glaucoma are open angle glaucoma and angle closure glaucoma. There are also congenital glaucoma that occurs at birth or months after birth. Finally there is the secondary glaucoma that occurs in some cases, following another disorder such as diabetes, cataracts or a serious injury.
Almost 90% of cases, it is an open-angle glaucoma. This form develops without symptoms for 10 or 20 years. The excess liquid drains easily from the eye, causing pressure on the optic nerve. With time, side vision is reduced, leaving only a central vision.
The narrow-angle glaucoma, occurs quickly. The liquid does not drain well, the pressure in the eye causes severe pain. Generally, the disease first attacks only one eye and the second eye five years later. This form of glaucoma should be treated as quickly as possible. Without treatment, there is risk of blindness.
It is important to consult a doctor. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of irreversible damage.
02 mai 2010
| The text above is for information purposes only. Only a doctor can diagnose a disease. No treatment (medication or scheme) should be undertaken without consulting a health professional. |