silmänpainetauti

Silmänpainetauti, also known as glaucoma, is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. This nerve is essential for good vision and connects the eye to the brain. Glaucoma is typically caused by an abnormally high pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure. This pressure can injure the delicate fibers of the optic nerve.

There are several types of glaucoma. The most common is open-angle glaucoma, where the drainage angle in the eye doesn't work properly, causing pressure to build up slowly. Angle-closure glaucoma is less common and occurs when the iris blocks the drainage angle, leading to a sudden or gradual increase in eye pressure. Other forms include normal-tension glaucoma, where optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure, and congenital glaucoma, which is present at birth.

Early stages of glaucoma often have no symptoms. As the condition progresses, peripheral or side vision is typically lost first. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection, especially for individuals with risk factors such as family history, age over 40, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

Treatment for glaucoma aims to lower intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. This can be achieved through prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, or surgery. The specific treatment plan depends on the type and severity of glaucoma. While vision loss from glaucoma cannot be reversed, treatment can often halt or slow the progression of the disease.