Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the name for a group of eye diseases which damage the optic nerve. Most often a glaucomatous eye has increased intraocular pressure (IOP), resulting either from too much fluid being produced in the eye or too little draining out. Below are the most common types of glaucoma.

Open Angle Glaucoma
Open-angle is the most common. The anterior structures of the eye can appear normal, but the optic nerve is gradually being damaged and therefore your vision is slowly disappearing. The damage is often caused by aqueous fluid building up and increasing the IOP. In some cases, the IOP is within normal range but damage is still occurring on the optic nerve. Peripheral vision is affected first, without any noticeable symptoms. Eye drops are typically prescribed to lower the pressure. In some cases, surgery is necessary.

Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma
Only about 10% of glaucoma patients have this type. The space between the iris and cornea becomes more narrow than normal, leaving a smaller canal for the aqueous to pass through. If the flow becomes completely blocked, the IOP will rise sharply and cause sudden vision loss.

Secondary Glaucoma
This form happens as the result of another disease or problem with the eye, such as:
• Eye trauma
• Inflammation
• Previous surgery
• Diabetes
• Certain medications

In these cases, both the glaucoma and the primary problem must be treated.

Congenital Glaucoma
This is a rare type that may occur in infants. In most cases, surgery is required.

Dr. Carter will be happy to discuss your concerns and answer your questions. The first step towards receiving glaucoma treatment is to call or email glaucoma surgeon Dr. Carter to schedule your free consultation. We serve all of Dallas, Texas.