SIMPLE GLAUCOMA Meaning and
Definition
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Simple glaucoma is a form of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) due to a blockage or reduced outflow of fluid within the eye. It is the most common type of glaucoma, accounting for the majority of cases worldwide.
In simple glaucoma, the trabecular meshwork, a network of drainage channels within the eye, becomes less efficient in draining the aqueous humor, the clear fluid that fills the front portion of the eye. This leads to a buildup of pressure, gradually damaging the optic nerve and causing vision loss over time. Unlike other types of glaucoma, simple glaucoma does not have any identifiable underlying causes or associated ocular or systemic conditions.
The condition is typically asymptomatic in its early stages, which underscores the importance of regular eye exams to detect any changes in the optic nerve or IOP. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience gradual peripheral vision loss, tunnel vision, or even blindness if left untreated.
Treatment for simple glaucoma aims to lower and maintain the IOP within a safe range to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. This can be achieved through the use of medicated eye drops, oral medications, laser treatments, or surgical procedures, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's response to treatment.
Overall, simple glaucoma is a chronic eye disease characterized by increased intraocular pressure and subsequent optic nerve damage. Early detection and intervention play a crucial role in preserving vision and preventing irreversible vision loss.
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Occurs without inflammatory symptoms.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SIMPLE GLAUCOMA
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Etymology of SIMPLE GLAUCOMA
The word "glaucoma" is derived from the Greek word "glaukōma", which means "clouded or dimmed vision" (from "glaukos", meaning "gleaming, bright, or sparkling"). The term was first used by the 1st-century Greek physician Galen to describe the disease's characteristic feature of a greenish-blue discoloration of the eye.
The term "simple glaucoma" is used to differentiate it from other types of glaucoma, such as secondary glaucoma or congenital glaucoma. It refers to the most common form of glaucoma, which typically occurs without any underlying medical conditions or other identifiable causes. The word "simple" here implies that it is not associated with any complicating factors, making it the regular or straightforward type of glaucoma.
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