Glaucoma describes eye disorders involving damage to the optic nerve, which sends visual signals to your brain. This loss of nerve tissue can result in a loss of vision over time.
Primary open-angle glaucoma is one of the most common forms of glaucoma. It results from increased pressure in the eye, which can lead to optic nerve damage. Increased pressure can build slowly and be difficult to detect in everyday life. In its early stages, it may affect your peripheral vision alone. But, with time, it could lead to complete vision loss or even blindness.
Keep in mind, pressure is not the only indicator of glaucoma. Glaucoma can develop in spite of normal eye pressure, and high pressure does not always give way to glaucoma. Even though glaucoma is most common in people over 40, the disorder can develop for anyone at any age.
Acute angle-closure glaucoma, when compared to primary open-angle glaucoma, is not as common, but does progress more quickly. If you are experiencing intense eye pain, redness, blurred vision, or nausea, you may need immediate, medical attention. This form of glaucoma is an emergency and needs to be treated right away.
There is no way to completely prevent glaucoma, but early diagnosis and treatment can help control the condition and limit its effects. Often times medication or surgery can help reduce the damage, but glaucoma cannot be reversed. For this reason, at Brenart Eye Clinic we regularly test for glaucoma and recommend frequent eye exams. Factors such as age, race, family history, and previous medical conditions can all contribute to developing glaucoma. At Brenart Eye Clinic we use tonometry to measure the pressure inside your eye and pachymetry to measure corneal thickness. We also examine your field of vision and the retina of your eye.
Treatment for glaucoma may start with prescription eye drops that help manage the pressure in your eyes. Other treatments may include medication, surgery, or implants. Because treatment is ongoing, it is important that your optometrist detect any changes in your eye health. Regular eye exams are essential to managing glaucoma, which is a lifelong issue.
If you may be at risk for glaucoma, contact us at 630-553-6166 today to discuss your eye health, or schedule your appointment below.