At what point does glaucoma cause irreparable damage?Due to an alkali burn in both eyes, I have pressure build-up that has recently spiked to a record 43 in the right eye and 48 in the left eye. What do these numbers mean, and at what point does the pressure start causing irreparable damage to the optic nerve?
(Yes, I am seeing a specialist, and we are working hard to get it down...I just forgot to ask him this today, and I don't see him again until Monday...I'm worried -now- though).
Posted by rose
it depends upon is ur optic nerve still safe?i mean is ur vision still good?r u getting benefit from medication?most of the time ur vision remains good untill or unless ur pressure become resistant to drugs n raises above 50.in that case u hv to get laser or surgery.
the symptoms of pressure >50 are 1)red watering eye 2)blurring vision 3)headache etc.in that case u should go to doctor or ER as soon as possible.this is called Acute Attack of Glaucoma.this is very dangerous.
Posted by Pedestal42
In the absence of any change in symptoms, you're quite safe till Monday.
But any fresh pain, or further reduction in vision, should be reported instantly and be considered as requiring emergency attention.
I presume you are on medication? Possibly a diuretic as well as eye-drops? Any change in medication really needs 24 - 48 hours before it can be re-assessed, as a minimum, unless a frank *acute* glaucoma attack occurs (see above)
It is very unlikely, as yet, that you have taken significant permanent damage to your optic nerves.
Yes, those pressures need to be brought down, ideally to under 20.
If drops don't work, surgical techniques are available and can be done promptly if, and only if, it proves necessary.
Without seeing you, that's probably about as far as I can go.
Optometrist, retired.
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