About Glacoma
Glaucoma is a group of diseases, each generally associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) which can eventually damage the optic nerve.
Because the anterior eye is a fluid-filled compartment, the circulation and drainage of the aqueous humor (comprised of mostly water and essential salts continually being produced within the eye) is critical to ocular health. If there is an overabundance of aqueous humor or drainage through the trabecular meshwork or Schlemm’s canal is impeded, there is increased pressure, and glaucoma begins to develop.
Glaucoma is a chronic, bilateral disease. The most common form, primary open-angle glaucoma, develops gradually, giving no warning signs. It slowly destroys the optic nerve and constricts one’s field of vision (commonly known as “tunnel vision”). It also contributes to the formation of scotoma, “holes” in one’s visual field. Once glaucoma is far advanced, it will eventually affect the central or reading vision and may lead to blindness.
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the U.S.; and, to date, it is believed that it cannot be prevented. Estimates put the total number of suspected cases of glaucoma at around 65 million worldwide.