Glaucoma Research
Glaucoma is a condition in which pressure builds up in the eye which damages the optic nerve and causes a loss of vision. The test for pressure is a routine test that the ophthalmologist checks when making an examination of the eyes. The doctor uses tonometry to measure the pressure which if over 22 millimeters will be too much. To check for glaucoma, the examiner checks for loss of peripheral vision or blind spots in the visual field.
The most common form of glaucoma is open angle glaucoma in which fluid drains too slowly. This will cause a gradual loss of vision unless promptly treated. Medicated eyedrops are the method of treatment and the doctor usually tries different eyedrops to see which ones are most effective. Early treatment will usually stop further deterioration of vision, but the eyedrops may have to be continued indefinitely. For more severe cases of open angle glaucoma, the doctor has other options which as a last resort may necessitate surgery to reduce the pressure. The other form of glaucoma is closed angle glaucoma, and it causes sudden increases in pressure. Pressure in the attacks of closed angle glaucoma are quickly relieved with medication. Closed angle glaucoma may be prevented from further attacks by laser surgery that creates a small hole in the iris.
