Glaucoma
WHAT IS GLAUCOMA?
Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve. The optic nerve is like a cable that carries the information from your eye to your brain, therefore it is very important in sight. Glaucoma is often associated with elevated eye pressure, however sometimes people can have glaucoma even with “normal” eye pressures.
WHAT CAUSES GLAUCOMA?
The cause of glaucoma hasn’t been fully elucidated, however we do know that genetics can play a role. Trauma and eye disease, including diabetes, can also cause different forms of glaucoma.
WHY DOES GLAUCOMA MATTER?
Glaucoma is a disease of progression, and if it progresses it causes loss of your peripheral vision first. It is easy for the symptoms of glaucoma to go unnoticed, and so you may have glaucoma and not know it. That is why an eye exam with an eye professional is so important. If the disease progresses unchecked, the peripheral vision loss will encroach closer into your central vision and end-stage glaucoma can result in complete black blindness.
HOW IS GLAUCOMA DIAGNOSED?
Glaucoma is a complex disease and so diagnosis is also complex. Your doctor will obtain multiple tests to determine your risk of glaucoma. One of these tests will be a visual field test that can test how your peripheral vision may be affected by the glaucoma. Another test called an OCT can microscopically measure your optic nerve to determine if there is thinning of the nerve. The most important parts of these tests is repeating them to monitor for changes that could be signs of progression. Once your doctor does a thorough examination and review of your testing, they can discuss your risk with you and discuss whether treatment is a good option for you.
HOW DO YOU TREAT GLAUCOMA?
There are a number of ways to treat glaucoma, including drops, laser and surgery. Here at Horizon Eye Center, we work with you to find the treatment options that best fit your lifestyle and your vision goals.