Glaucoma is a chronic degenerative eye disease with a proven inflammatory component, characterized by increased intraocular pressure leading to irreversible loss of
optic nerve fibres. This process leads to decreased visual acuity and a narrowing of the visual field.
Types of glaucoma
Glaucoma can be congenital or acquired. Congenital glaucoma occurs immediately after birth or in the first few years of life due to abnormal development of the intraocular fluid drainage pathways.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent permanent loss of eye function
.
Acquired glaucoma may occur independently or as a complication of other eye conditions, such as severe myopia, chronic or acute inflammation, or pseudoexfoliative syndrome, which involves the production of atypical proteins that obstruct the drainage of ocular fluid.
The importance of anatomical structure
The anatomical structure of the anterior chamber of the eye plays a crucial role in the risk of increased intraocular pressure. Eyes with a narrower anterior chamber have a higher risk of increased intraocular
pressure. Ophthalmologists assess these issues using a special lens that allows visualization of hidden ocular structures.
Diagnosis and treatment
Treating glaucoma requires regular monitoring and the use of modern equipment.
Early diagnosis is essential, as optic nerve damage occurs gradually and painlessly, often only being noticed when irreversible changes occur. Normal-pressure glaucoma is a particular case where the intraocular pressure is normal but still harmful to the patient’s eye.
The diagnosis of glaucoma is based on increased intraocular pressure, narrowing of the visual fields and proven atrophy of optic nerve fibers. Current technologies, such as optical coherence tomography and Angio CT, allow early detection of optic nerve atrophy and ischemia, thus facilitating the initiation of hypotensive treatment.
Medication in the form of eye drops can control intraocular pressure, preventing disease progression. Laser methods, such as selective laser trabeculoplasty, clear the drainage pathways, stabilizing intraocular pressure. Other techniques, such as micropulse laser therapy, help to drain eye fluid without heating the tissues, thus providing a natural anti-inflammatory effect. In our clinic, this type of treatment is available and is performed painlessly and on an outpatient basis.
Regular monitoring is crucial, especially for people with a family history of glaucoma, to detect and effectively manage any progression of the disease. In cases where drug and/or laser treatment is not sufficient, surgery becomes necessary, followed by long-term follow-up.
