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Chronic glaucoma is found in about 2% of the population over the age of 40 and is the commonest cause of preventable blindness in the developed world. The International Glaucoma Association estimate that more than 500,000 people suffer from glaucoma in England and Wales alone. It can affect people of any age but is more likely after the age of 40. There are other types of glaucoma which are uncommon.
Acute glaucoma is a medical emergency. A precipitous rise in pressure occurs when the trabecular meshwork suddenly becomes occluded (blocked). This is treated surgically to remove the cause of the obstruction. Acute glaucoma is extremely painful. Treatment is required urgently since damage to the optic nerve begins within hours of onset.
Causes of Narrow-Angle Glaucoma
A person with chronic glaucoma has worsening damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of vision.
The optic nerve is a bundle of nerve fibers that carries information from the eye to the brain. Blind spots develop when the nerve fibers become damaged. Left untreated, chronic glaucoma can result in blindness. Chronic glaucoma is very common and responds well to treatment.