Pigment Glaucoma Causes

Many people suffer from glaucoma, a combination of eye conditions that leads to loss of vision. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness. The condition--and loss of vision--are subtle and can go undetected until diagnosed in advanced stages. There are no noticeable signs or pain associated with glaucoma--another reason it is often diagnosed at a very late stage.



Pigmentary glaucoma is a form of glaucoma that is similar, but its causes are very different. Regular yearly eye exams are one of the most effective ways to identify and stop this condition in its early stages.

General Causes of Glaucoma

• While the cause of glaucoma is unknown, the condition occurs when increased eye pressure causes optical nerve damage. The pressure comes from a buildup of fluid that cannot be properly drained. Pigmentary glaucoma occurs when pigments from the iris accumulate and block fluid from draining within the eyes.

Causes of Pigmentary Glaucoma

• Pigmentary glaucoma occurs when the pigment normally contained within the eye's colored part, the iris, flakes off and accumulates in the back of the eye. Sometimes the flakes travel into the eye's drainage canals where a clear fluid called the aqueous humor drains out. The pigment flakes can clog the canal, which prevents draining and increases eye pressure which, in turn, can cause nerve damage and block the brain from receiving images.

At Risk Groups

• People 40 and under have a higher risk of pigmentary glaucoma. Other risk factors include nearsightedness, diabetes and hypertension.

  According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, studies have found that vigorous exercise such as jogging and basketball can cause more pigment to be released from the iris, which can further block eye drainage.