The cause of vision loss in all forms of glaucoma is optic nerve damage. There are many underlying causes and forms of glaucoma. Most causes are not known, but it is evident that different processes are involved, and a malfunction in any one of them could cause glaucoma. For example, eye trauma may result in the angle becoming blocked, or, as a person ages, the lens may become larger and push the iris forward. The cause of optic nerve damage in normal-tension glaucoma is also unknown, but there is speculation that the optic nerves of these patients are susceptible to damage at lower pressures than what is usually considered to be abnormally high. It is probable that most glaucoma is inherited. At least 10 defective genes that cause glaucoma have been identified.
Initially, chronic open-angle glaucoma has no noticeable symptoms. The pressure build-up is gradual and there is no discomfort. Moreover, the vision loss is gradual and one eye fills-in the image where its partner has a blind spot. However, left untreated, vision loss becomes evident, and the condition can be painful.
Acute closed-angle glaucoma is obvious from the beginning of an attack. The symptoms are blurred vision, severe pain, sensitivity to light, nausea, and halos around lights. The normally clear cornea may be hazy. This is an ocular emergency and needs to be treated immediately. Similarly, congenital glaucoma is evident at birth. Symptoms include bulging eyes, cloudy corneas, excessive tearing, and sensitivity to light.
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