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**Question: What is Open-Angle Glaucoma?**
**Answer:**
Open-angle glaucoma is a vision-threatening disease characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), the pressure within the eye. It is the most common type of glaucoma, affecting approximately 2-3 million people in the United States alone. Unlike angle-closure glaucoma, which involves a blockage of the eye’s drainage system, open-angle glaucoma develops gradually due to a reduced ability of the eye to drain fluid properly.
**Causes of Open-Angle Glaucoma:**
The exact cause of open-angle glaucoma is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified, including:
* **Age:** Risk increases after the age of 60.
* **Family history:** Having a family member with glaucoma raises your risk.
* **Race:** African Americans and Hispanics are at higher risk.
* **Nearsightedness (myopia):** People with severe nearsightedness have a higher risk.
* **Diabetes and hypertension:** These conditions can contribute to increased IOP.
* **Corticosteroid use:** Long-term use of topical corticosteroids can increase IOP.
**Symptoms of Open-Angle Glaucoma:**
Open-angle glaucoma is often asymptomatic in its early stages. Vision loss typically occurs gradually and may not be noticeable until significant damage has occurred. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
* Patchy blind spots in peripheral vision
* Tunnel vision (loss of central vision)
* Pain in the eyes
* Headaches
* Nausea and vomiting
**Diagnosis of Open-Angle Glaucoma:**
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye exam, including:
* **Tonometry:** Measures IOP
* **Ophthalmoscopy:** Examines the optic nerve and retina
* **Perimetry:** Tests visual field to detect blind spots
* **Gonioscopy:** Inspects the eye’s drainage system
**Treatment for Open-Angle Glaucoma:**
Treatment aims to lower IOP and prevent further vision loss. Options include:
* **Eye drops:** Medications to reduce fluid production or improve drainage.
* **Laser therapy:** Creates small holes in the iris to improve fluid outflow.
* **Surgery:** Inserts small drainage implants or repositions the iris.
**Prevention of Open-Angle Glaucoma:**
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent open-angle glaucoma, regular eye exams and managing risk factors can help reduce the risk. Regular checkups, especially for individuals at higher risk, are crucial for early detection and timely treatment.
Glaucoma Surgery
What is Open-Angle Glaucoma