Final Answer:
Juvenile glaucoma is a hereditary disease that causes blindness due to the degeneration of nerves in the optic nerve.
Step-by-step explanation:
Juvenile glaucoma is a hereditary condition characterized by elevated intraocular pressure, leading to optic nerve damage and eventual blindness. This condition primarily affects the optic nerve, which is crucial for transmitting visual information from the eyes to the brain.
The increased intraocular pressure results from impaired drainage of the aqueous humor, causing progressive damage to the optic nerve fibers. Over time, the degeneration of these nerve fibers leads to irreversible vision loss.
While glaucoma can manifest in various forms, juvenile glaucoma specifically affects individuals at a younger age due to genetic factors. Early detection and management are essential in mitigating the progression of the disease and preserving vision through treatments like medication, laser therapy, or surgical interventions to improve fluid drainage and reduce intraocular pressure.