Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the eye’s optic nerve and can result in vision loss and blindness.
However, with early detection and treatment, you can often protect your eyes against serious vision loss.
The optic nerve is a bundle of more than 1 million nerve fibers. It connects the retina to the brain. (See diagram.)
The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. A healthy optic nerve is necessary for good vision.
Several large studies have shown that eye pressure is a major risk factor for optic nerve damage. In the front of the eye is a space called the anterior chamber. A clear fluid flows continuously in and out of the chamber and nourishes nearby tissues. The fluid leaves the chamber at the open angle where the cornea and iris meet. (See diagram below.) When the fluid reaches the angle, it flows through a spongy meshwork, like a drain, and leaves the eye.
In open-angle glaucoma, even though the drainage angle is “open,” the fluid passes too slowly through the meshwork drain. Since the fluid builds up, the pressure inside the eye rises to a level that may damage the optic nerve. When the optic nerve is damaged from increased pressure, open-angle glaucoma-and vision loss—may result. That’s why controlling pressure inside the eye is important.
Another risk factor for optic nerve damage relates to blood pressure. Thus, it is important to also make sure that your blood pressure is at a proper level for your body by working with your medical doctor.
African Americans over age 40
Everyone over age 60, especially Mexican Americans
People with a family history of glaucoma
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AMD Center of Excellence
Monday | 7:30am-6:00pm |
Tuesday | 7:30am-6:00pm |
Wednesday | 7:30am-6:00pm |
Thursday | 7:30am-6:00pm |
Friday | Closed Most Fridays |
Our Culture
AMD Center of Excellence
Monday | 7:30am-6:00pm |
Tuesday | 7:30am-6:00pm |
Wednesday | 7:30am-6:00pm |
Thursday | 7:30am-6:00pm |
Friday | Closed Most Fridays |