Glaucoma from the Greek word, glaukoma (meaning clouded or blue-green hue), is a sight-threatening disease in which the pressure of the eye’s fluid increases. Unless promptly treated, the internal eye structures are permanently damaged.

Normally there is a constant production of clear fluid within the front part of the eye, which is drained away as fast as it is produced. In glaucoma, interference with the drainage develops increased pressure in the eye.

About 2 percent of the population above forty years of age is a candidate for glaucoma. If these cases are not handled properly, about one million persons now living in this age group will become blind from glaucoma. With early detection and care, vision can be preserved in 80 to 85 percent of all cases.

A person above forty should have a routine eye examination every two years rather than wait for the glaucoma to develop first.

Symptoms of glaucoma may include the following:

(1) a gradual decline in the acuity of vision (The person feels that he needs a change of glasses);

(2) the seeing of “halos” around lights;

(3) headaches;

(4) pain in the eye which throbs and eventually grow intense;

(5) redness of the eye, particularly in that part of the “white of the eye” which surrounds the cornea;

(6) swelling of the eyelids;

(7) tendency for the eyes to water;

(8) enlargement of the pupil; and

(9) a “steamy” appearance of the cornea.

Glaucoma may develop without demonstrable cause, or it may follow some other eye disease. The acute type may develop rapidly, in a few hours.

WHAT TO DO

1. Even when there is no evidence of eye disease, it is advisable to have the eyes examined at least every two years, with measurement of the pressure in the eye.
2. If there is question regarding the meaning of any symptoms relating to the eyes, consult an eye specialist.
3. Treatment of glaucoma is of two types; (1) medical (using eye drops and medicines) and (2) surgical. In many cases medical treatment alone will prevent progression of the disease and save the patient’s vision.

This information was taken from the New Illustrated Medical and Health Encyclopedia.