What Is Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness throughout the world affecting millions of people. Glaucoma is typically a painless disease that results in damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is the pathway that carries the images we see to the brain. If left untreated, the disease can destroy the optic nerve leading to permanent loss of vision

Glaucoma may affect anyone, however there are certain “risk factors”. These include people with advancing age, African-American heritage, a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, near-sightedness, far-sightedness, long term steroid treatment and a history of injury of trauma to the eye.

Types of Glaucoma

There are several types of glaucoma, but the 2 major ones are “open-angle” and “closed-angle”. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type, occurring in about 3 million Americans. This type of glaucoma occurs slowly over time, and affected individuals often do not know they have in until they begin to experience visual problems. Closed-angle glaucoma is less common. This differs from the open-angle type in that it can cause symptoms (pain & visual loss) suddenly. An “attack” of closed-angle glaucoma is a medical emergency and needs to be treated immediately.

Glaucoma can be treated successfully in many ways. Treatment typically involves eye drops, laser and/or surgery. The goal of treatment is to prevent loss of vision or loss of the field of vision. Damage that has already occurred because of glaucoma cannot be reversed, but further damage can be prevented. Since most people with glaucoma experience no noticeable symptoms, an eye examination for glaucoma including specialized testing is the MOST important tool in preventing vision loss from the disease. Newer diagnostic tools, such as the Heidelberg Retinal Tomograph can allow your doctor to detect if any damage from glaucoma has occurred.

The key to controlling glaucoma is catching it early. The best way to prevent vision loss from glaucoma is to know your risk factors and to have eye examinations at appropriate intervals. Dr. Walker will be more than happy to answer any of you questions regarding this important health issue.