The nerve fibers that make up the optic nerve connect the retina to the brain. The loss of nerve fibers causes blind spots in the field of vision, also known as visual field defects. The ophthalmologist can see that the optic nerve gradually changes in appearance. The loss of nerve fibers causes the optic nerve to become hollowed out or 'excavated'. If the disease is not treated or is treated inadequately, the visual field defects will become larger and, in the late stages, sharp vision may also be affected.
Risk factors
The mechanism that leads to damage to the optic nerve in glaucoma is still not fully understood. However, there are many factors known to significantly increase the risk of developing glaucoma (risk factors):
- Increased eye pressure. This is by far the most important risk factor. A statistically normal eye pressure is between 11 and 21 mmHg. The higher the eye pressure, the greater the risk.
- Glaucoma in the family. If glaucoma occurs in someone's immediate family (first- and second-degree relatives), the risk is 10 times higher than for someone without glaucoma in the family.
- Advanced age. Glaucoma is much more common in older people (4% of people over the age of 80 have glaucoma).
- Severe nearsightedness or farsightedness.
- Abnormalities of the blood vessels in or around the eye.
Types of glaucoma
The most common type of glaucoma is high-pressure glaucoma. This occurs when the drainage system of the eye becomes blocked. This causes the pressure in the eye to rise and eventually damages the optic nerve, resulting in loss of vision.
In closed-angle glaucoma, the structure of the eye is such that the iris (the colored part of the eye) can block the drainage system of the eye, preventing the eye fluid from draining and causing the eye pressure to rise. This form can be acute or chronic. The acute form is usually accompanied by blurred vision, a red eye, headache, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms are caused by very high eye pressure. Rapid treatment is required to prevent damage to the optic nerve.
The chronic form is more common and can be treated effectively in its early stages. People who are farsighted and wear strong plus glasses are more likely to develop this form of glaucoma.
Do you have questions about glaucoma?Feel free to drop byand we will see what we can do for you. We can also compile a referral letter with our findings to give to your general practitioner or ophthalmologist.
