Glaucoma
What is glaucoma?
The size and shape of an eyeball is determined, partly, by the clear fluid produced within the eye. This fluid flows from the eye back into the blood stream through a filtering drainage system. When this drainage is impaired, pressure in the eye increases. Increased pressure is glaucoma. Pain (squinting), cloudiness of the eye, loss of vision and stretching of the eye (enlargement) occur. These signs can develop slowly, not being noticed until the eye is enlarged. Or the pressure can increase very quickly, even causing permanent blindness.
What causes glaucoma?
“Secondary” glaucoma is caused by other diseases in the eye such as inflammation, hemorrhage, tumor, dislocated lens, etc. Both glaucoma and the underlying cause must be treated.
“Primary” glaucoma occurs in both eyes, but not necessarily at the same time. It is inherited; therefore certain breeds have a higher incidence than other breeds.
Why is glaucoma such an urgent problem?
Delaying treatment of glaucoma, by even a day or two can result in permanent vision loss. Increased pressure in the eye can develop quickly and can cause blindness and pain. Regardless of the type or cause of glaucoma it is always very serious and often difficult to control. Pets with glaucoma usually require lifelong treatment and evaluation to maintain vision and keep the eyes comfortable.
What treatment is there for glaucoma?
The goal is to save as much vision as possible for as long as possible and keep the patient comfortable. Treatment is based on the cause, severity and duration of the glaucoma. Treatment may range from eye drops at home, to hospitalization for intense therapy, to surgery. A treatment plan for each patient may change as the response to treatment is noted. Nearly every glaucoma patient must be evaluated and closely monitored to adjust treatments.
What can I expect after treatment?
Unfortunately, the only thing predictable about glaucoma is that it usually gets worse (either quickly or gradually) and that each patient requires frequent followup so the treatment program can keep pace with the disease. However, in many patients vision loss can be postponed or prevented and all patients can be kept comfortable.
Untreated Glaucoma showing enlarged blind eye
Please contact us with questions about any eye conditions your pet may have.
