Glaucoma Overview and Types

Damage to the optic nerve due to increased pressure inside the eye.

Pressure inside the eye.

A common type of glaucoma where fluid drains slowly from the eye, causing gradual increase in pressure.

A type of glaucoma where the angle between iris and sclera closes suddenly, causing a rapid increase in pressure.

10 - 20 mm/Hg of pressure.

The Intraocular Pressure (IOP) in primary open-angle glaucoma is usually elevated, ranging from 22 to 32 mm Hg.

Primary open-angle glaucoma can manifest with symptoms such as headache, mild eye pain, loss of peripheral vision, decreased accommodation, and halos seen around lights.

Primary angle-closure glaucoma is characterized by a rapid onset of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) exceeding 30 mm Hg.

Symptoms include decreased or blurred vision, colored halos around lights, nonreactive pupils, severe pain and nausea, and sensitivity to light (photophobia).

Open-angle glaucoma involves gradual fluid drainage blockage and pressure increase, while angle-closure glaucoma involves sudden closure of the angle between the iris and sclera, leading to rapid pressure buildup.

A test that measures the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP).

A type of glaucoma where the drainage angle in the eye suddenly closes, causing a rapid build-up of pressure.

A technique used after applying eye drops, where pressure is applied to the inner corner of the eye to prevent the medication from draining away.

Medications are the primary treatment for glaucoma, helping to lower eye pressure and protect vision.