Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions in which increased fluid pressure inside the eye causes irreversible damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is responsible for carrying visual information from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness in the United States, and first worldwide, and can affect anyone at any age. There is still no actual cure for glaucoma, Ophthalmology Associates does provide glaucoma treatment options to slow the progression of the disease.

Types of Glaucoma

Open-angle Glaucoma

Open-angle glaucoma is a chronic condition found primarily in adults, which slowly and painlessly manifests over time. It is the most common form of the affliction.

Angle-closure Glaucoma

Angle-closure glaucoma is an acute condition found primarily in adults, which requires emergency treatment.

Congenital Glaucoma

Congenital glaucoma is a hereditary condition that is present at birth, causing abnormal development of the fluid channels in the eye.

Secondary Glaucoma

Secondary glaucoma is a systemic condition caused by other contributing factors such as drugs and other diseases.

Glaucoma Treatment

The goal of any glaucoma treatment is to reduce eye pressure, as this is the inevitable cause of vision impairment. The most common glaucoma treatment method prescribed is medicated eye drops, which reduce pressure and, in some cases, protect the optic nerve from further damage. Eye drops are usually prescribed to patients with open-angle and secondary glaucoma, and in some cases angle-closure. For those suffering from angle-closure glaucoma, the pain caused by an attack will dictate emergency medical attention. If left untreated, angle-closure glaucoma can result in blindness in a matter of days. Medicated eye drops or pills may be prescribed, but likely laser refractive surgery will be necessary. Laser refractive surgery for both angle-closure and congenital glaucoma reopens or creates new channels for fluid in the eye to reduce swelling. Laser refractive surgery is available for open-angle glaucoma when eye drops fail or patent develops allergic reactions to medication.

While there may be no permanent cure for the different types of glaucoma, there is no reason to forgo treatment in lieu of vision impairment and eventual blindness.

Ophthalmology Associates offers a variety of treatments for all types of the eye conditions. Please contact us today to schedule your personal consultation with one of our physicians; the sooner your glaucoma is diagnosed, the better chance there is of improving and ultimately saving, your vision.