Glaucoma

Definition

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high intraocular pressure. It is a leading cause of blindness if not diagnosed and treated early.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma is influenced by the balance between aqueous humor production and drainage.
2. The fluid dynamics within the eye, including aqueous humor flow, are critical in understanding glaucoma mechanisms.
3. Elevated intraocular pressure can compress retinal blood vessels, affecting blood flow and leading to optic nerve damage.
4. Measurement of intraocular pressure uses principles of fluid statics to assess the force exerted by the aqueous humor on the eye walls.
5. Fluid statics principles explain why changes in body posture can temporarily affect intraocular pressure readings.

Review Questions

• How does an imbalance in aqueous humor production and drainage contribute to glaucoma?
• Why is understanding fluid dynamics within the eye important for diagnosing and treating glaucoma?
• Explain how elevated intraocular pressure can lead to optic nerve damage.

Related terms

Intraocular Pressure (IOP): The fluid pressure inside the eye, which is crucial for maintaining its shape and proper function.

Aqueous Humor: A clear fluid produced by the ciliary body in the eye that maintains intraocular pressure and provides nutrients to avascular ocular tissues.

Optic Nerve: A bundle of more than a million nerve fibers that transmits visual information from the retina to the brain.