The Two Different Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a very complicated disease that involves damage to the optic nerve, which results in vision loss. In any case, there are several different types and forms of glaucoma Boulder. Two of the most common types are primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and angle-closure glaucoma (ACG). Continue reading to learn more eye exam boulder about these two types of glaucoma.

Open-Angle Glaucoma

Often called the "sneak theif of sight", open-angle glaucoma develops slowly over time and typically doesn't display symptoms until the individual has already lost a significant amount of vision. The majority of people who have OAG feel completely fine and do not recognize the change in vision because the first loss of vision is peripherial or side vision. The sharpness of vision or visual glaucoma lafayette acuity stays the same until the disease has progressed. In most instances, when a patient finally becomes aware of the vision loss, the deases has already advanced quite a bit. In any case, vision loss caused by glaucoma isn't reversible with surgery or treatment.

How to Prevent OAG

Since open-angle glaucoma has very few symptoms or warning signs, it's vital to see a doctor on a regular basis for eye examinations. If the glaucoma is detected early, the physician can help protect the patient's vision by prescribing a preventative treatment plan.

What Happens in Open-Angle Glaucoma

With this type of glaucoma, the angle in the eye where the cornea meets the iris is as open and wide as it should be. However, the drainage canals in the eye become congested overtime, which increases the internal pressure in the eye and causes more damage to the optic nerve. This type of glaucoma is the most common and affects approximately four million people in the U.S. Those who glaucoma treatment lafayette are Latino or African-American are at higher risk for the disease. In addition, diabetics, those who have siblings or parents with the disease and those who have a cardiovascular disease are also at a high risk. As an individual's age increase, their likelihood to develop glaucoma increases as well.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

On the other hand, angle-closure glaucoma does have symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of this type of glaucoma are:

• Head pain and severe eye pain

• Blurred or hazy vision

• The appearance of rainbow-colored circles around bright lights

• eye care boulder Sudden loss of sight

• Vomiting or nausea accompanied by severe eye pain

What Causes Angle-Closure Glaucoma?

Angle-closure glaucoma is the result of the eye's drainage canals being blocked. This results in a spike in the intraocular pressure. This type of glaucoma is much more rare and it develops extremely quickly. If someone has these symptoms or has been diagnosed with angle-closure glaucoma, they should have immediate medical attention. The damage associated with acute angle-closure glaucoma happens very quickly and is noticable.