Glaucoma
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 Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United States, especially for the elderly. Loss of sight from glaucoma can often be prevented with early detection and treatment.
Glaucoma is when the pressure within the eye increases causing damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is the part of the eye that carries the images we see to the brain. When damage is done, blind spots in the peripheral vision occur. These blind spots are usually unnoticeable until there is significant damage. If the entire nerve is destroyed, blindness results.
The most common form of glaucoma is chronic . This is when the drainage angle becomes narrow over time and the fluid doesn't drain properly. The fluid then builds up causing a gradual increase of the pressure in your eye. This continual high pressure causes damage to the optic nerve which can lead to visual loss.
is when the drainage angle becomes completely blocked and the flow of fluid within the eye is blocked. This is a true eye emergency. Unless this type of glaucoma is treated quickly, blindness can result. Symptoms of acute angle- closure glaucoma attack may include; blurred vision, severe eye pain, headache, nausea and vomiting. If you have any of these symptoms call our office immediately.
Some risk factors include age, family history of glaucoma, African ancestry and past eye injuries. Nearsightedness, corneal thickness and some systemic health problems, such as diabetes and poor circulation are also known risk factors.
The best way to detect glaucoma is with a regular eye exam. During this exam we will check the pressure in your eye and your doctor will evaluate your optic nerve. If there is any suspicion of glaucoma other testing will be done, such as an inspection of the drainage angle of your eye and a peripheral vision test of each eye.
Glaucoma can usually be treated with daily eye drops. If the drops are insufficient at lowering the pressure a laser surgery to widen the drainage channels would be considered. If drops and laser treatment do not adequately lower the pressure, a traditional surgery in the operating room can be done.
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