The fluid that fills the outer part of the eye is constantly produced. Glaucoma is a condition in which there are excessive amounts of this fluid within the anterior chamber of the eye. This leads to increased pressure within this chamber which can result in eye damage. Chronic glaucoma often does not cause any eye pain, whereas acute glaucoma does. The chronic build up of fluid and pressure may lead to damage to the optic nerve and loss of vision. This condition occurs more frequently in those over age 40, but can affect all ages.
Causes of Glaucoma, Chronic Open-angle
Chronic open-angle glaucoma is caused by a buildup of the fluid (aqueous humor) in the eyeball. The excess fluid leads to increased pressure within the closed chamber of the eye. It leads to damage to the fibers in the optic nerve. People at risk are those who requires frequent lens changes. Some signs of the disorder to look for may include headaches or vague visual disturbances, halos around electric lights, and vision that doe not adapt well from light to dark.
Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma, Chronic Open-angle
Unfortunately, chronic glaucoma has few or no early warning signs. The central vision, vision that you read with, will remain relatively normal until the last stages of the disease. There is gradual loss of peripheral vision. This may be difficult to detect. However, sometimes people begin to notice they run into things on the side when they walk or drive. More advance stages of chronic glaucoma are associated with enlarging areas of visual loss. This is typically seen in both eyes. The eyeball may feel hard. Halos may appear around lights, blind spots may become noticeable and there may be poor night vision.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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