Glaucoma
One of the normal physiological processes in the eye is the constant formation and exchange of a clear, colorless fluid known as the aqueous humor. It serves as a carrier for nutrient of all kinds and supplies those parts of the eye, such as the crystalline lens or cornea, that have no vessels. The aqueous humor is naturally eliminated so that the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) is always constant. If the elimination mechanism is blocked, water can’t flow out, and intraocular pressure increases. This excessive pressure condition affects the optic nerve at the point where it connects to the eyeball. The result is that visual impressions received by the visual cells are transmitted to the brain incompletely, if at all. The progress of glaucoma cannot be reversed.
Glaucoma is a hereditary disease. Regular screening by an eye care professional from an early age is important, especially if glaucoma has occurred in your family.
