Glaucoma is a group of disorders characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), optic nerve atrophy, and peripheral visual field loss.
There are two types of Glaucoma: Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma (PACG) and Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) (See diagram below for description of each):
Open-Angle: Few symptoms exist and it often goes unnoticed until peripheral vision is severely compromised.
Closed-Angle: Is considered a medical emergency. Symptoms are sudden and include sudden, excruciating eye pain along with nausea and vomiting.
Drug therapy, Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty, Trabeculectomy, and Iridotomy.
The goal of treatment is to lower IOP to prevent optic nerve damage.