VII: Diseases of the eye and adnexa

H40-H42: Glaucoma

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases marked by an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) that can lead to damage to the optic nerve, potentially resulting in vision loss or even blindness if not addressed in time. The exact cause of the increased pressure is not entirely understood, but it's often associated with a blockage or malfunction of the eye's drainage system. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of glaucoma, but they often include blurry vision, eye pain, headache, and seeing halos around lights. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience patchy blindness or tunnel vision. Primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, typically presents no symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. Glaucoma primarily affects the eye's optic nerve and vascular system, but left untreated, it can have significant impacts on an individual's quality of life due to vision impairment.