What is Glaucoma?

Overview

Glaucoma is a disease in which the optic nerve is damaged, leading to a gradual loss of visual field. In advanced stages, it can result in blindness. It is the leading cause of acquired blindness in Japan.

Main Causes

• Increased intraocular pressure (can occur even within normal range)
• Impaired blood flow or vulnerability of the optic nerve
• Genetic factors (higher risk if there is a family history)

Types

1. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG)
   The most common type. Progresses slowly and symptoms are often unnoticed.
2. Normal-Tension Glaucoma
   Common among Japanese people. Optic nerve is damaged even with normal eye pressure.
3. Angle-Closure Glaucoma
   Causes sudden increase in eye pressure. Acute attacks result in severe eye pain and headaches.
4. Secondary Glaucoma
   Caused by trauma, diabetes, steroid use, etc.
5. Congenital Glaucoma
   Present from birth due to abnormalities in aqueous humor drainage.

Main Symptoms

Early Stage

No noticeable symptoms

Middle Stage

Parts of the visual field become blurry or missing

Advanced Stage

Severely narrowed visual field with reduced vision (tunnel vision)

Acute Type

Severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and sudden vision loss (requires immediate treatment)

Diagnosis Methods

Intraocular pressure measurement

Fundus examination (observing the optic nerve head)

Visual field testing (Humphrey, Goldmann)

Gonioscopy, OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)

Treatment Options

Eye drops (first-line treatment): Medications that lower eye pressure (e.g., prostaglandin analogs, beta-blockers)

Laser therapy: To widen the angle or enhance fluid outflow

Surgery: Trabeculotomy, filtration surgery, etc.

Important Notes

There is no complete cure, but progression can be slowed

Early detection and ongoing treatment are critical

Regular eye checkups are recommended for those over 40