GLAUCOMA: CAUSES AND TYPES

For many individuals, vision is the sense they rely on most in their everyday lives. Learning about a diagnosis of glaucoma or being at risk for it can be challenging to accept. It can feel daunting to consider how to adjust and continue living after experiencing significant vision loss. However, most types of glaucoma are manageable, especially when identified early. With proper care and careful oversight, it is possible to postpone — or even prevent — irreversible vision impairment.

WHAT CAUSES GLAUCOMA?

Glaucoma results from damage to the optic nerve. While it can occur for no identifiable reason, several factors can influence the condition. The primary risk factor is intraocular eye pressure. The eyes produce a fluid known as aqueous humour, which nourishes them. This fluid circulates through your pupil into the front part of your eye. In a healthy eye, the fluid drains through mesh-like canals where the iris and cornea connect at an angle.
In glaucoma, the resistance in the drainage canals increases. The fluid cannot exit, leading to its accumulation in the eye. This excess fluid creates pressure within the eye. Ultimately, this heightened eye pressure can injure the optic nerve and result in glaucoma. The reasons for fluid accumulation can vary depending on the specific type of glaucoma.

TYPES OF GLAUCOMA

1. There are several types of glaucoma, primarily categorized as follows:
   Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma:This is the most common type. It progresses gradually and often without noticeable symptoms. “Open-angle” indicates that the drainage angle, where the inside of the sclera (the white part of the eye) meets the outer edge of the iris, is wide enough to allow for normal fluid flow. Therefore fluids flow slowly through the drainage canal.
2. Normal-Tension Glaucoma: This occurs when damage to the optic nerve happens even with standard eye pressure. This can be due to inadequate blood flow to the optic nerve or a family history of the condition.
3.  Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This type occurs when there is a sudden blockage of fluid flow, leading to severe eye pain and possible vision loss. It happens when the eye’s drainage angle becomes abruptly blocked. For instance, aqueous humour fluid should move from the posterior chamber behind the iris, through the pupil, and into the anterior chamber. However, sometimes the lens of the eye pushes too far forward, obstructing fluid movement through the pupil. The excess fluid in the posterior chamber forces the iris forward, narrowing or blocking the drainage angle.
4. Secondary Glaucoma:This type arises when another condition or event raises eye pressure, resulting in glaucoma. Conditions that may lead to this include eye injuries, uveitis, certain medications, eye surgeries, and more.
5. Congenital Glaucoma: This rare type is present at birth and occurs due to changes or variations that happen during fetal growth. It results from the improper formation of the eye’s drainage system. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for preserving vision.

Every type of glaucoma presents its own challenges, but regular eye check-ups can facilitate early detection and management. Protect your vision at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear before seeking help. A clear view of the future begins with caring for your eyes today.

TREVEC CARES!!!