Understanding Glaucoma
Early diagnosis of glaucoma can save your vision. Glaucoma can occur at any age. It is one of the leading causes of blindness in people over 40. However, if diagnosed and treated early, glaucoma can be effectively controlled, even though a cure has yet to be discovered.
Simply put, glaucoma is too much fluid pressure within the eye, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss and blindness. The fluid pressure builds up because the drainage system of the eye is not functioning properly.
There are several types of glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common. It develops gradually, destroying peripheral (side) vision first and then central vision. Since there are no early warning symptoms, thorough medical eye examinations that include eye pressure checks are imperative, particularly if you are over 40.
Narrow-angle or angle-closure glaucoma is much less common. A major symptom is the rapid onset of sharp, severe plan around the eye. Blurred vision, halos around lights, nausea or vomiting may also occur. Immediate medical attention is imperative to quickly reduce eye pressure and avoid permanent vision loss.
Secondary glaucoma can result from an eye injury, certain drugs, hemorrhages, tumors or inflammations that block the drainage channels in the eye.
A simple eye pressure test during an eye examination can indicate the presence of glaucoma. Your ophthalmologist at Yaldo Eye Center can perform further tests including ophthalmoscopy, visual field testing and gonioscopy for complete diagnosis and treatment evaluation.
Eye drops are frequently prescribed to lower eye pressure. An alternative to expense and hassle of eye drops is laser trabeculopasty therapy at Yaldo Eye Center. The laser light stretches open the tiny drainage channels, allowing excess fluid to escape. In some cases, a new drainage system may need to be surgically created. It is done as an outpatient procedure at our in-office surgical facility.
Every case of glaucoma is treated on an individual basis at Yaldo Eye Center. Your ophthalmologist at Yaldo Eye Center will be happy to discuss every treatment option with you.
