LYCOS RETRIEVER
Glaucoma: Pressures
built 636 days ago
Glaucoma is a range of conditions in which the pressure inside the eye becomes too high. It is important that the doctor checks the back of the eye for evidence of any damage.
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Glaucoma is an eye condition that develops when too much fluid pressure builds up inside of the eye. It tends to be inherited and may not show up until later in life.
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Glaucoma occurs when an imbalance in production and drainage of fluid in the eye (aqueous humor) increases eye pressure to unhealthy levels. Normally the aqueous fluid, which nourishes the eye, is produced by the ciliary body behind the iris (in the posterior chamber) and flows to the front of the eye (anterior chamber), where it drains into drainage canals between the iris and cornea (the "angle"). When functioning properly, the system works like a faucet (ciliary body) and sink (drainage canals). Balance between fluid production and drainage—between an open faucet and a properly draining sink—keeps the fluid flowing freely and prevents pressure in the eye from building up.
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Glaucoma has blinded 80,000 Americans. Don't become a statistic. Know your risk and have your eyes examined regularly. A pressure check alone is insufficient to detect glaucoma. It's important you receive an appropriate evaluation from an Ophthalmologist if you are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma.
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Glaucoma can be treated with eye drops, pills, laser surgery, eye operations, or a combination of these. The purpose of treatment is to prevent further loss of vision. Loss of vision in glaucoma is irreversible. Bringing the pressure under control will not restore lost vision, but it is the key to preventing further loss of vision.
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Glaucoma is suspected based on the symptoms and the physical exam. The diagnosis may be confirmed on a complete eye exam. The pressure in the eye may be measured initially and to monitor treatment.
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