Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve of the eye. Generally, it occurs when fluid builds up in the front of the eye. Excess fluid pressure increases the pressure in the eye and damages the optic nerve.
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in people over 60 years. Blindness due to glaucoma can be prevented if treated in early stages.
Useful vocabulary related to eyes
Optic Nerve: a nerve in the back of the eye that connects to the brain. The optic nerve sends light signals to the brain to allow us to see.
Aqueous humor: clear liquid on the inside of the front part of the eye. It nourishes the eye and keeps it inflated. (The aqueos is not the same as the tears, that are outside the eye).
Drainage angle: the area of the eye where the aqueous humor from the front of the eye drains.
Iris: the colored part of the eye. Controls the size of the pupil to allow light to enter the eye.
