Glaucoma is an eye condition – or more accurately a group of eye conditions – that stems from increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and damage the optic nerve, the nerve responsible for carrying visual signals to the brain. But what causes this increase in IOP? What causes glaucoma?
What Causes Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP)?
The Primary Cause of Increased IOP
When eye fluid, known as the aqueous humor, isn’t circulating properly, eye pressure can increase. Normally, this fluid drains out of the eye through a mesh-like channel; however, if this channel is blocked, the fluid has nowhere to go, causing eye pressure to increase and leading to glaucoma. Think of it like a dam. When the dam is built, water can no longer drain as it once did and, because of this, begins to collect behind the dam.
The direct cause of this blockage is unknown.
Less Common Causes of Increased IOP
Of the 60 million people who suffer from glaucoma worldwide, only about 10% suffer from secondary glaucoma, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
- Eye injury can lead to Traumatic Glaucoma
- Severe infection
- Blockage of blood vessels in the eye can lead to Neovascular Glaucoma
- Inflammatory conditions of the eye can lead to Uveitic Glaucoma
- Abnormal accumulation of protein in the drainage system of the eye can lead to Exfoliative Glaucoma
- Pigment dispersion syndrome can lead to Pigmentary Glaucma
If left undiagnosed and untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss and even blindness. So, when was your last eye exam? Treatment successfully preserves vision 95% of the time or more, especially when the condition is caught early.
Glaucoma Treatment in Annapolis, Maryland
The Anne Arundel Eye Center is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. Board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles and his staff have helped preserve thousands of patients’ vision. They can help you too.
If you have any questions about Glaucoma Treatment or wish to schedule an appointment with Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC), please contact Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, Dr. Kathryn Gurganus Turner, and the eye care specialists here at AAEC by calling 410-224-2010 or by filling out our contact form.
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For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
I have exfoliative syndrome with glaucoma in the right eye con trolled with timolol and Lumigan. Is it safe to do weight lifting if the Valsalva manoeuvre is avoided?
Because we do not know all of the specifics of your case, you should contact your ophthalmologist with this question. If you are looking for a new doctor for care, we will be glad to assist you. Please call 410-224-2010 to make an appointment.