Glaucoma is a group of diseases of the optic nerve involving loss of retinal ganglion cells in a characteristic pattern of optic neuropathy. Raised intraocular pressure is a significant risk factor for developing glaucoma (above 22mmHg). One person may develop nerve damage at a relatively low pressure, while another person may have high eye pressur...

Several factors that can put a person "at risk" for developing glaucoma: Family history of glaucoma - There is a 20 percent chance of developing glaucoma of a parent had it, and 50 percent chance if a sibling has it. Age - If the person is 65 to 79 years of age, there is a 3 percent chance of developing glaucoma. If the person is 80 years of ag...

The most common types of glaucoma — primary open-angle glaucoma and acute angle-closure glaucoma — have completely different symptoms. Primary open-angle glaucoma signs and symptoms include: Gradual loss of peripheral vision, usually in both eyes Tunnel vision in the advanced stages Acute angle-closure glaucoma signs and symptoms include: ...

Known as the "sneak thief" of sight, open-angle glaucoma has no early warning signs or symptoms. However, as the disease progresses a person may experience: Tiny blind spots appear at the edges of the visual field (peripheral or side vision) that slowly get larger and spread Blurred vision Appearance of colored halos around lights Adjus...

Treatment of Glaucoma There is no cure for glaucoma, but it can be controlled. Ophthalmologists use medication and surgery to prevent further vision loss. These treatment methods are used to bring the intraocular pressure under control. Medication Nearly all glaucoma can be treated successfully with topical medications (applied directly to the eye...