Glaucoma secondary to eye inflammation, unspecified eye Save

Understanding Glaucoma Secondary to Eye Inflammation

Glaucoma, a condition that causes damage to the optic nerve of the eye, is often associated with increased pressure inside the eye. However, it can also occur as a secondary complication of eye inflammation, also known as uveitis. This type of glaucoma is referred to as glaucoma secondary to eye inflammation or uveitic glaucoma.

Uveitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that contains the iris, choroid, and ciliary body. When the uvea becomes inflamed, it can lead to increased pressure within the eye, causing damage to the optic nerve and leading to glaucoma.

Symptoms of Uveitic Glaucoma

The symptoms of uveitic glaucoma are similar to those of primary open-angle glaucoma, which is the most common type of glaucoma. They include:

1. Gradual loss of peripheral vision
2. Tunnel vision
3. Blurred vision
4. Halos around lights
5. Eye redness and pain
6. Headaches

It is important to note that uveitic glaucoma can develop slowly over time and may not produce any noticeable symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage. This is why regular eye exams are crucial for detecting and treating the condition early on.

Treatment for Uveitic Glaucoma

The treatment for uveitic glaucoma is aimed at reducing the inflammation in the eye and lowering the intraocular pressure. This may involve the use of eye drops, oral medications, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

Eye drops are often the first line of treatment for uveitic glaucoma. These can include medications that reduce inflammation and those that decrease the production of fluid in the eye. In some cases, oral medications may also be prescribed to control inflammation and reduce pressure.

If eye drops and oral medications are not effective, surgery may be necessary to lower the intraocular pressure. This may involve a trabeculectomy, which is a surgical procedure that creates a new drainage channel in the eye to allow fluid to drain more easily.

Conclusion

Uveitic glaucoma is a serious complication that can occur as a result of eye inflammation. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with glaucoma, it is important to schedule an eye exam with your ophthalmologist as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can help prevent vision loss and preserve your eye health.