Types of Glaucoma
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Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG):
- Description: This is the most common type of glaucoma. It occurs when the drainage canals in the eyes gradually become clogged over time, leading to increased eye pressure. The angle where the iris meets the cornea remains open, but the drainage canal is partially blocked.
- Symptoms: Often asymptomatic in the early stages; gradual loss of peripheral vision over time.
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Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG):
- Description: This occurs when the angle between the iris (coloured part of the eye) and cornea is too narrow. This blockage can lead to a rapid increase in eye pressure. It can happen when your pupil changes and dilates too rapidly. This blocks your drainage canals and prevents aqueous fluid from leaving your eye, causing eye pressure to rise
- Symptoms: Severe eye pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and halos around lights. It can develop suddenly (acute).
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Normal-Tension Glaucoma (NTG):
- Description: In this type, optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure levels*. The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve.
- Symptoms: Similar to POAG, but without elevated eye pressure.
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Secondary Glaucoma:
- Description: This type develops as a result of another medical condition, such as diabetes, cataracts, or eye trauma, or due to the use of certain medications like corticosteroids.
- Symptoms: Varies depending on the underlying cause.
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Congenital Glaucoma:
- Description: A rare form present at birth, caused by improper development of the eye’s drainage system during prenatal development.
- Symptoms: Enlarged eyes, cloudiness of the cornea, excessive tearing, and light sensitivity in infants.
Management of Glaucoma
The management of glaucoma focuses on lowering eye pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Here are the primary strategies:
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Medications:
- Eye Drops: The first line of treatment usually involves eye drops that reduce eye pressure by either decreasing the production of aqueous humor or increasing its outflow. The eye pressure needs to be maintained between 10mmHg and 20mmHg.
- Oral Medications: In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed to further reduce eye pressure.
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Laser Therapy:
- Trabeculoplasty: Used primarily for open-angle glaucoma, this procedure involves using a laser to improve the drainage of aqueous humor through the trabecular meshwork.
- Iridotomy: Typically used for angle-closure glaucoma, this involves creating a small hole in the iris with a laser to allow fluid to drain more freely.
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Surgical Procedures:
- Trabeculectomy: A surgical procedure where a small portion of the trabecular meshwork is removed to create a new drainage pathway for aqueous humor.
- Drainage Implants: Devices are implanted to help drain fluid from the eye.
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Lifestyle Modifications:
- Regular Eye Exams: Early detection is crucial. Regular comprehensive eye exams can catch glaucoma in its early stages.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing other health conditions like diabetes and hypertension can help manage glaucoma.
- Adherence to Treatment: Consistent use of prescribed medications and regular follow-up with an eye care specialist is critical for managing glaucoma.
Each type of glaucoma may require a different approach to treatment, and the management plan is usually tailored to the individual based on the severity of the disease and the patient’s overall health.