What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve, the part of the eye that carries the signals from the eye to the brain. The optic nerve is made up of nerve fibres. Glaucoma occurs when the pressure in the eye (intra ocular pressure) builds up, as a result of a blockage in the eyes drainage system. This results in damage to the optic nerve fibres.

Most patients with glaucoma have no early symptoms or pain, however, as damage occurs to the nerve fibres, patients tend to notice a reduction in their peripheral vision. The nerve damage is irreversible and can result in blindness if the entire nerve is destroyed.