Glaucoma

Glaucoma is referred to as the "sneak thief of sight". Many patients do not experience any symptoms. Vision loss starts with loss of peripheral vision and in late stages affects central vision. Patients who go untreated with glaucoma may face some visual loss or even blindness. It is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. It is as common as high blood pressure and diabetes, but has a widespread lack of familiarity.

Glaucoma is a specified pattern of optic nerve damage and visual field loss caused by a number of different eye diseases, which can affect the eye. Not all, but most of these diseases are characterized by elevated intraocular pressure. This is an important risk factor for the development of glaucoma not the disease itself because it strikes without obvious symptoms.

Everyone should be concerned about glaucoma and its effects. It is important for each of us, from infancy to senior citizens to have their eyes checked regularly. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma are the only ways to prevent visual impairment or even blindness.

There are a few conditions that tend to put people at a greater risk. These include:

1. You are over 45 and have not had your eyes examined regularly
2. Family history of glaucoma
3. Abnormally high intraocular pressure
4. You have diabetes
5. Are of African descent
6. You are nearsighted
7. Have regular or long-term steroid/cortisone use
8. Have had a previous eye injury

Our physicians can perform a series of simple tests which can help to determine whether or not you have glaucoma or are likely top develop the disease, even before you have symptoms. The most important thing you can do to protect your vision from glaucoma is to have regular eye exams. If your eye doctor finds that you have the disease or that you are at risk for the disease, treatment can be recommended to minimize the risks or effects.

Call our office for more information.

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