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Glaucoma
Glaucoma occurs in 1 out of every 200 individuals (primary open angle glaucoma) over 40 years of age in the general population although it can also occur in younger individuals. The most common type of glaucoma is primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) which is sometimes hereditary and is characterized by elevated intraocular pressures (IOPs) with slowly progressive damage to the optic nerve and resulting loss of vision. It is usually in both eyes although the onset may be different between the two eyes.
In the past, elevated IOPs resulted in a diagnosis of glaucoma. IOPs are now considered to only be a risk factor for glaucoma as it is possible to have lower than "normal" IOPs and to have glaucoma, as well as to have higher than "normal" IOPs and to not have glaucoma. In addition, IOPs usually vary depending upon the time of day. Often glaucoma is detected only by the evaluation of the optic nerve. Special tests such as visual field tests, diurnal pressure evaluations, and gonioscopy can aid in the diagnosis of this condition.
Treatment of glaucoma usually comprises the use of daily eyedrops but can require surgical procedures. Although not curable, glaucoma is usually manageable. The use of daily eyedrops to lower IOPs can halt or slow the progression of the disease. Glaucoma is usually without symptoms until the resulting vision loss is fairly severe and the glaucoma is fairly advanced. Early detection and management of glaucoma is essential to prevent or reduce permanent vision loss.
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