Glaucoma Treatment From Our Optometrist
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that is most often diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. There are different types of glaucoma, but mainly it is known for its ability to rob vision beginning with the sides, while gradually moving toward the center of vision. Because progression is so gradual, most do not experience noticeable symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly. Glaucoma is not curable; however, symptoms can be managed when the disease is in the early stages.
Causes and Risk Factors for Glaucoma
Glaucoma can happen to anyone, but some are more susceptible than others. It strikes more often for those that have a family history of the disease, and those over 60 years old. It is more common in the Hispanic/Latino population as well as African Americans and hits these demographics as young as age 40. While the exact cause of glaucoma is not fully understood, it seems that eye pressure can play a strong role in the development of the disease. Vision loss is the result of damage to the optical nerve in the brain.
Types of Glaucoma
While glaucoma is usually referred to as just “glaucoma” there are four main types of glaucoma that eye doctors look for. These include
- Primary open angle glaucoma is also known as chronic glaucoma and is the most common type. It is suspected that the increased pressure in the eye stems from improper fluid drainage, which inhibits proper blood flow.
- Primary angle-closure glaucoma is sometimes referred to as acute glaucoma and it also involves a drainage problem. The iris has moved forward and blocks drainage paths. This type develops very quickly and demands prompt treatment to save vision.
- Secondary glaucoma – With Secondary glaucoma the drainage angle is narrow and either the trabecular meshwork becomes damaged due to pressure from the iris, or drainage is blocked off by the meshwork.
- Developmental glaucoma – Unlike other types of the disease developmental glaucoma is congenital and strikes babies and young children when they experience pressure in their eyes. While vision loss can be limited to treatment, the condition needs close monitoring throughout life.
Effective Treatments for Glaucoma
The best way to fight glaucoma is to get regular eye exams so that the condition can be diagnosed and treated early. Depending on your specific case, treatment may include prescription eye drops, laser treatment, or surgery. Your Doctor of Optometry will also encourage you to work with your primary health provider on managing your blood pressure overall. To learn more about what can be done to maintain your vision and eye health, contact Insight Eyecare in Jenks at 918-299-2020.