The Type of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for

Transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. It is often associated

with increased pressure within the eye, known as intraocular pressure, but can

Also occur without this increased pressure. Glaucoma is a progressive disease,

meaning that it can worsen over time if left untreated. The first signs of glaucoma

are often a loss of peripheral vision, which can be difficult to notice at first. As the

disease progresses, it can lead to tunnel vision and ultimately, blindness.

Glaucoma has several types including open-angle glaucoma, angle-closure

glaucoma, and normal-tension glaucoma.

What are the different types of glaucoma?

There are several types of glaucoma, including:

 Open-angle glaucoma: This is the most common type of glaucoma and

occurs when the drainage canals in the eye become clogged, leading to

increased intraocular pressure. It develops gradually and can cause a

gradual loss of peripheral vision.

 Angle-closure glaucoma: This type of glaucoma occurs when the iris (the

colored part of the eye) blocks the drainage canals in the eye, leading to a

sudden increase in intraocular pressure. It can cause symptoms such as

severe eye pain, headache, blurred vision, and nausea.

 Normal-tension glaucoma: In this type of glaucoma, the optic nerve is

damaged even though the intraocular pressure is within the normal range.

It is not clear why this occurs, but it is thought to be related to a lack of

blood flow to the optic nerve.

 Congenital glaucoma: This is a rare type of glaucoma that is present at birth

or develops within the first few years of life. It is caused by an abnormality

in the development of the eye's drainage system.

 Secondary glaucoma: This type of glaucoma is caused by an underlying

condition, such as diabetes or a previous eye injury or surgery.

 Pigmentary glaucoma: In this type of glaucoma, pigments from the iris can

become dislodged and block the drainage canals, leading to increased

intraocular pressure.

 Pseudoexfoliative glaucoma: This type of glaucoma occurs when flaky

material accumulates in the drainage canals of the eye, leading to increased

intraocular pressure. It is often associated with age and can be difficult to

diagnose.

How is glaucoma treated?

The goal of glaucoma treatment is to lower the intraocular pressure in the eye

and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment options depend on the

type and severity of glaucoma and may include:

1. Eye drops: Medications in the form of eye drops can be used to reduce

intraocular pressure by decreasing the amount of fluid produced in the eye

or improving the drainage of fluid. There are several different types of eye

drops available, including prostaglandin analogs, beta-blockers, and

carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

Bharti Eye Foundation in Delhi, India, provides the best glaucoma treatment. This is a Nabh-accredited glaucoma treatment facility.