What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a progressive disorder that causes damage to the optic nerve and loss of sight. It is often painful, can progress quickly, and can occur suddenly. It is caused by an increase of pressure within the eye. There are several classifications of glaucoma, but the end result is always vision impairment or loss. It is often described as the silent thief of sight because by the time you see symptoms it may already be too late to prevent vision loss.
Why should I be tested for Glaucoma?
While glaucoma cannot be prevented, it can be detected. Early detection of glaucoma can save your vision if the right steps are taken. However, if glaucoma is allowed to go untreated, the end result can be blindness. Just as your doctor recommends testing periodically for warning signs of other illnesses or diseases, regular testing for glaucoma can help save your vision.
Is there a treatment for Glaucoma?
There are several treatment options available for glaucoma. The sooner glaucoma is detected the more viable options are available to you. Options for treating glaucoma include:
- Laser surgery
- Optical drainage or filtering implants
- Eye drops
- Medication therapy
Eye drops are the most common first treatment for glaucoma, and often multiple treatments are used together to prevent loss of vision.
To learn more about preventing this dangerous condition, please contact the Carter Eye Center in Dallas, Texas today.
