FLAMMER SYNDROME-EYE BEYOND INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE

Abstract

Objective: Flammer syndrome or Vascular dysregulation has nowadays become an important topic of debate since it is said to pose a risk in development of glaucomatous optic neuropathy, besides raised intraocular pressure. Our study was implemented to determine the role of flammer syndrome, far less known and often neglected in pathogenesis of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Methods: The study group consisted of forty age and sex-matched diagnosed normal-tension glaucoma subjects and forty healthy controls. Each of them completed the Flammer syndrome questionnaire. T test was used for data analysis. Results: Statistically significant differences in symptoms like increased sensitivity (cold, drugs, smell, pain), long sleep onset time and a reduced feeling of thirst were existed between cases and control groups (p<0.001). They also demonstrated increased sensation to a few signs and symptoms like cold hands/feet, dizziness, migraines, headaches, and pain compared to controls but not significantly. Conclusion: The study could explain the possible relationship between normal-tension glaucoma and Flammer syndrome. Further research to be done to confirm this link in order to prevent the onset of glaucomatous optic neuropathy.