What is it about ?
Glaucoma is an eye disease characterized by an increase in pressure inside the eyeball. If the disease is left untreated, the optic nerve gradually comes under pressure, which can lead to black spots in the field of vision (fly flies) or even blind.
We distinguish the acute angle-closure glaucoma and the open angle glaucoma.
The cause of acute angle-closure glaucoma is a swelling of the structures located in the front part of the eye. This swelling prevents the discharge of eye fluid. This fluid builds up, causing the pressure inside the eyeball to increase.
In principle, anyone can have glaucoma, but the risk is greater in older people, black people, people with a family history of glaucoma, nearsightedness, and people who take certain medications, including corticosteroids. antidepressants and neuroleptics.
How to recognize it?
The following symptoms make it easier to recognize a acute angle-closure glaucoma : sudden pain in the head and eyes, red eye, nausea and vomiting, perception of a rainbow halo around lights, visual disturbances (blurred vision or reduced field of vision).
the open angle glaucoma evolves much more gradually. If left untreated, it also causes permanent symptoms. It can take years before you notice any change. Problems arise when the field of vision is very impaired.
How is the diagnosis made?
The general practitioner will make the diagnosis based on questions and an examination of the eye. He will suggest that you take additional examinations with the ophthalmologist.
In case of sudden and intense complaints, he will direct you urgently if necessary.
What can you do ?
If you have eye symptoms, whether acute or chronic, it is advisable to consult your GP. He will refer you to an ophthalmologist if indicated. Always tell the doctor that you are taking any medications, including eye drops, ointments, creams, drops, or nose sprays.
What can your doctor do?
The doctor may ask you questions about your risk factors, your complaints, and any medications you are taking. He will also perform a simple eye exam. It will often be necessary to refer you to the ophthalmologist. Treatment may consist of medicine to lower the blood pressure inside the eye, most often in the form of eye drops.
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