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What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the internal pressure of the eye rises to a point that the optic nerve becomes damaged. The pressure that builds up is from an excess production of fluid in the eye that for one reason or another does not drain properly. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U. S.
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Who gets glaucoma?
Glaucoma most frequently occurs in individuals over the age of 40 and is hereditary in some families. It is estimated that over 2 million Americans have glaucoma. These numbers are expected to rise as the majority of our population grows older.
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What causes glaucoma?
The exact cause of glaucoma is not known. For some reason, fluid in the eye is over-produced or the passage that allow the fluid to drain become clogged or blocked. This results in fluid building up within the eye causing increased pressure on the optic nerve. Pressure within the eye can also rise because of an injury, infection, or tumor in or around the eye.
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Why is glaucoma harmful to vision?
The optic nerve is the main nerve that carries vision information to the brain. As the fibers that make up the optic nerve become damaged, the amount and quality of the information sent to the brain decreases and a loss of vision occurs.
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Will I go blind with glaucoma?
If diagnosed at an early stage, glaucoma can be contained and little or no further vision loss should occur. If left untreated, peripheral and side awareness (peripheral vision) will gradually be destroyed and blindness may eventually occur.
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How can I tell if I have glaucoma?
Glaucoma often develops gradually and painlessly; there are no early warning signs. It can gradually destroy your vision without your knowing it. When glaucoma becomes more advanced, it may be accompanied by blurred vision, a loss in side vision, the appearance of colored rings are around lights, and pain or redness in the eye(s).
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How is glaucoma detected?
Glaucoma is usually effectively treated by using eye drops and medicines. In some cases, surgery may be required.
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How is glaucoma treated?
A thorough optometric examination by an optometrist will include a test for glaucoma. A simple and painless procedure, called tonometry, measures the intraocular pressure of the eye. The optometrist will also look into the eye to observe the health of the optic nerve and, if needed, measure your field of vision.
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Will my vision be restored after being treated?
Unfortunately any vision loss as a result of glaucoma is usually permanent and cannot be restored. That is why regular vision examination are so important.
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Can glaucoma be prevented?
No, but early detection and treatment can control glaucoma and reduce the chances of damage to the eye and a loss of sight. Be sure to visit your optometrist regularly.
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