Glaucoma

BY: Bisola A. Adeniran, RN



Glaucoma is a progressive disease of the optic nerve that can lead to loss of vision. It is usually due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP), but it can be due to to other causes. Open-angle glaucoma (or primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is one of the two main types of glaucoma, and it is common. The other type, angle-closure glaucoma is less common. Open-angle glaucoma affects all ages, but it occurs more often in people over 40. It is the second leading cause of blindness in the United States

Whose at Risk?
Family History of Glaucoma
Clients with Diabetes
Clients with Myopia (nearsightedness)
Previous eye injury
Regular, or long-term streoid use
African Americans (have a greater tendency)
Clients with low blood pressure
Restricted blood flow to the optic nerve

Normal eye blood pressure is maintained by a balance of fluid that flows into the front of the eye and then drains out. Thje angle of the eye where the iris and the cornea meet is where the fluid drains into the trabecular meshwork. If this drainage is obstructed it increases presuure on the optic nerve which can lead to vision loss.
Usually, there are no warning symptoms. Later stages of the disease include loss of peripheral vision in small areas, blurred vision, halos around lights, blind spots, and poor night vision. Frequent eye examinations help with screening and diagnosis of glaucoma. There is no cure for glaucoma but laser eye surgery may help improve the draining of the excess fluid. Eye drops that help to lower the pressure inside the eye are often prescribed.

Teaching
Since this is a silent eye killer of eyesight, patients often pay no attention to the symptoms. Nurses must emphasize and encourage early screening with eye examinations. The nurse can encourage clients to to inform their primary health care provider that if they symptoms of chronic glaucoma including: Any signs of eye infection, pain in the eye, redness of the eye and sudden vision changes.

References:
www. glaucomafoundation.org



NOTE: This blog post reflects the work of Bisola Adeniran, RN with editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.