Question
What causes glaucoma?
Answer
The causes of glaucoma can be categorized into primary and secondary types. Patients with primary glaucoma typically have specific anatomical features, such as small eyes, short eye axes, myopia, and shallow anterior chambers. These factors may trigger an acute attack of glaucoma during emotional stress, prolonged exposure to dim light, or extended periods of reading in a low position. If not treated promptly, it can lead to permanent blindness. Secondary glaucoma is usually caused by trauma, inflammation, bleeding, or tumors that damage the drainage structures of the anterior chamber, leading to increased intraocular pressure. In summary, glaucoma is due to the inability of the eye to properly drain its fluid. Symptoms of a glaucoma attack may include headache, eye pain, nasal congestion, rainbow vision, and temporary visual blurriness.